Legal Definitions - conclusive

Conclusive

When something is described as conclusive in a legal sense, it means it is definitive, undeniable, and settles a matter beyond any reasonable doubt or further dispute. It establishes a fact or outcome so firmly that it cannot be challenged or overturned.

• Example 1: Forensic Evidence

  In a product liability lawsuit, an independent laboratory's report states that the manufacturing defect was the conclusive cause of the product's failure. This means the evidence presented by the report is so strong and unambiguous that it definitively identifies the defect as the sole and undeniable reason for the product's malfunction, leaving no room for other explanations.

• Example 2: Legal Presumption

  In some jurisdictions, a child born within a marriage is conclusively presumed to be the child of the husband. This legal presumption means that, unless specific legal steps are taken to challenge paternity, the law treats the husband as the father without requiring further proof, and this fact cannot be easily disputed in court.

• Example 3: Arbitrator's Award

  After a dispute between a contractor and a homeowner goes through binding arbitration, the arbitrator issues a final award detailing the responsibilities and payments for each party. This arbitration award is often considered conclusive, meaning it is the final decision on the matter, legally binding on both parties, and generally cannot be appealed or relitigated in court.