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Simple English definitions for legal terms
imminent-peril doctrine
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A quick definition of imminent-peril doctrine:
The imminent-peril doctrine is a legal principle that allows a person to act instinctively to meet a sudden and urgent need for aid without being held to the ordinary standard of reasonable care. This principle also applies to medical treatment in dire situations when neither the patient nor a responsible party can consent, but a reasonable person would do so. Additionally, the principle allows a police officer to conduct a search without a warrant if there is probable cause and immediate action is needed to protect life or property. It is also known as the emergency doctrine, sudden-emergency doctrine, or sudden-peril doctrine.
A more thorough explanation:
The imminent-peril doctrine, also known as the emergency doctrine, is a legal principle that allows a person to be exempt from the standard of reasonable care if they acted instinctively to meet a sudden and urgent need for aid.
For example, if someone sees a child drowning in a pool and jumps in to save them without thinking about the potential risks, they may be protected by the imminent-peril doctrine if something goes wrong during the rescue.
This principle can also apply to medical treatment in dire situations where neither the patient nor a responsible party can consent, but a reasonable person would do so. In these cases, consent to medical treatment is inferred.
Additionally, the imminent-peril doctrine can be used by police officers to conduct a search without a warrant if they have probable cause and reasonably believe that immediate action is needed to protect life or property.
Overall, the imminent-peril doctrine is a legal principle that allows individuals to act quickly in emergency situations without fear of legal repercussions.