Legal Definitions - finable

Finable

The term finable describes an action, omission, or individual that is legally subject to a monetary penalty, known as a fine. If something is finable, it means that a law, regulation, or rule specifies that a fine can be imposed as a consequence for violating it.

• Example 1: Traffic Infraction

  A driver exceeds the posted speed limit on a highway. Because traffic laws establish specific monetary penalties for speeding, the act of speeding is considered finable. The driver will likely receive a ticket requiring them to pay a fine to the state or local authority.

• Example 2: Public Nuisance

  A homeowner fails to clean up their property, allowing excessive trash and debris to accumulate, which violates a local city ordinance regarding property maintenance. Since the ordinance specifies that such violations can result in a monetary penalty, the homeowner's neglect is finable, and they may be ordered to pay a fine until the issue is resolved.

• Example 3: Business Regulation

  A retail store fails to conspicuously display its business license as required by state law. The state's business regulatory agency has the authority to impose a penalty for non-compliance. Therefore, the store's failure to display the license is a finable offense, and the business could be assessed a fine.