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LSDefine
Simple English definitions for legal terms
error
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A quick definition of error:
An error is a mistake or misunderstanding. In legal situations, an error can be a mistake about the facts or the law. If there is a mistake about the law, it can change the outcome of the case. If there is a mistake about the facts, it may or may not change the outcome. Sometimes, an error doesn't change the final result and is called a harmless error.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: An error is a mistake or misconception. In legal contexts, an error can be a mistake of fact or a mistake of law. A mistake of law can nullify or reverse a judgment in a case. A mistake of fact that a judge or jury relied on to reach a decision or verdict may or may not warrant reversal. A harmless error in court proceedings is one that does not affect or change the case's final result.
- Example 1: A student makes an error on a math problem and gets the wrong answer.
- Example 2: In a court case, the judge makes an error of law and the verdict is reversed.
- Example 3: In a court case, the jury makes an error of fact and the verdict is upheld because it does not affect the final result.
The examples illustrate that errors can occur in various contexts, such as academic work or legal proceedings. Mistakes can have different consequences depending on the situation. In a court case, an error of law can have a significant impact on the outcome, while an error of fact may not. A harmless error does not affect the final result, so it is not considered significant.