Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Term: forfeit
Definition: Forfeit means losing something valuable as a punishment for breaking a rule or not doing what you were supposed to do. This can include losing money, property, or other rights without getting anything in return. There are different types of forfeitures, including ones that happen in court or as a result of breaking a contract.
Definition: Forfeit or forfeiture means losing a right, privilege, or property without compensation as a consequence of violating the law, breaching a legal obligation, failing to perform a contractual obligation or condition, or neglecting a legal duty. Under federal law, there are civil, criminal, and administrative forfeitures.
Example: If a person is caught driving under the influence of alcohol, they may forfeit their driver's license as a consequence of violating the law. Similarly, if a tenant fails to pay rent, they may forfeit their right to continue living in the rental property.
These examples illustrate how a person can lose a right or privilege as a result of their actions or inactions. In both cases, the individual is not compensated for their loss and must face the consequences of their behavior.