Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: just-war doctrine
Derivative Defense: A type of defense that is based on another defense. For example, if someone is accused of stealing, they may use the defense that they were given permission to take the item. This defense is based on the derivative defense of consent.
Derivative defense refers to a type of defense that is based on another defense. For example, if a defendant claims self-defense, but the prosecution argues that the defendant was the aggressor, the defendant may use the defense of defense of others as a derivative defense.
For example, if a defendant claims that they were induced to commit a crime by an undercover police officer, they may use the defense of derivative entrapment. This defense is based on the claim that the police officer's actions were illegal and therefore the defendant's actions should not be considered criminal.