Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: pro bono publico
Disqualification means something that makes someone unable to do something. For example, if a judge or juror has a bias or conflict of interest, they cannot be fair in a case and must be disqualified. The same goes for a lawyer who cannot represent a party because of a conflict of interest. If one lawyer in a firm is disqualified, the whole firm may be disqualified too. Disqualification can also mean the act of making someone unable to do something.
Definition: Something that makes one ineligible; especially, a bias or conflict of interest that prevents a judge or juror from impartially hearing a case, or that prevents a lawyer from representing a party.
Example: If a judge has a personal relationship with one of the parties involved in a case, they may be disqualified from hearing the case to ensure impartiality.
Explanation: This example illustrates how a bias or conflict of interest can lead to disqualification. In this case, the judge's personal relationship with one of the parties could influence their decision-making, so they are disqualified from hearing the case to ensure fairness.
Related term: Recusal