Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: forcible
An election is when people choose something or someone from a few different options. This can be choosing between different rights or remedies, or choosing a person to fill a public office or award. Sometimes, people are forced to choose between different options and can only have one. There are different types of elections, like a general election that happens regularly, or a special election that happens in between general elections to fill a sudden vacancy.
Definition: The act of choosing from several possible options or candidates.
Example: A primary election is held to choose the candidate who will represent a political party in the general election.
Election can also refer to the obligation to choose between alternative rights or claims. For example, a plaintiff who wins a lawsuit may be put to an election between out-of-pocket damages and lost profits.
Example: A person who inherits property and is also entitled to a benefit under a legal instrument may be required to make an equitable election between the two.
In addition, election can refer to the process of selecting a person for a position or title, such as a public office or award.
Example: The 2020 presidential election was a highly contested race between two major candidates.
Overall, election involves making a choice from among options or candidates, whether in a political, legal, or personal context.