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Simple English definitions for legal terms

instrument

Read a random definition: miscellaneous itemized deduction

A quick definition of instrument:

An instrument is a written document that records important agreements or actions that are legally enforceable. Examples of legal instruments include contracts, wills, deeds, and laws passed by governments. These documents must be read as a whole and interpreted correctly. While some people can write their own legal instruments, only lawyers can draft complex ones that secure legal rights. Once a legal instrument is signed, it becomes valid and can be used as evidence. In the past, legal instruments had to be sealed with wax or stamped, but this is no longer required in most places. However, it is illegal to falsify or change a legal instrument with the intention of deceiving someone else.

A more thorough explanation:

An instrument is a written legal document that records legally enforceable acts or agreements and secures their associated legal rights, obligations, and duties. It can be used as evidence to prove the existence of such acts or agreements.

Examples of legal instruments include:

  • Contracts
  • Wills
  • Promissory notes
  • Deeds
  • Statutes passed by competent legislatures

Legal instruments must be read as a whole, with every part interpreted in accordance with the whole. They are considered executed once they have been given validity and legal effect. For example, signing a contract executes the contract.

Most states allow non-lawyers to write their own instruments such as wills and contracts, but do not allow non-lawyers to charge third parties to draft complex legal instruments on their behalf that secure legal rights.

Historically, instruments were not considered properly executed until they had been sealed with wax or stamped. This requirement simplified authentication and enforcement, but today it has been done away with in most American jurisdictions to allow for greater ease in contracting.

However, a person who falsifies or materially alters a legal instrument with the intent to defraud another is guilty of the crime of forgery.

For example, a contract between two parties is an instrument that records the legally enforceable agreement between them. The contract can be used as evidence in court if one party breaches the agreement and the other party seeks legal action.

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[] baddestbunny
18:29
1.5 hours bitches
[] baddestbunny
18:32
but who’s counting?
it’s happennninnnnggg
Dkk
18:37
I will do better! @Shaq
shaquilleoatmeal
18:41
atta boy dk
[] baddestbunny
18:42
I think our opponent’s dad is mad at me
good feed off his malding
JumpySubsequentDolphin
18:52
gulc should send invites so i can take my mind off the election
Dkk
19:11
Man, I just made two steaks, opened a bottle of Chianti Classico. Just gotta relax.
Dkk
19:11
It will all be good!
Dkk
19:15
Btw no Berkeley. Friend at Berkeley law says everyone is checked out already cus of the election.
19:19
the final results won't be announced for quite a while right
should have a good idea of the winner late tonight or tomorrow morning
BulbasaurNoLikeCardio
19:25
I am hoping to have a decent idea of who next president will be by my bed time lmao
kamala getting crushed in florida
19:30
despite the election, 81 As today and 7 Rs, wow more than I would have guessed
BulbasaurNoLikeCardio
19:31
@llama: I think it is great to see that, I am wondering how crazy end of november and early december A/R is going to be
19:41
@BulbasaurNoLikeCardio: yeah should be a wild ride the next few months for sure!
[] baddestbunny
19:53
seven minutes
19:56
bunny r u exhausted or overtired and wide awake?
JumpySubsequentDolphin
20:02
December is gonna be INSAAANE for decisions
BulbasaurNoLikeCardio
20:20
@JumpySubsequentDolphin: it will honestly be awesome to see
JumpySubsequentDolphin
20:22
@BulbasaurNoLikeCardio: only if it’s good news ☹️
wsp yall
20:27
dial is back https://www.nytimes.com/
JumpySubsequentDolphin
20:28
NYT count’s diff than CNN
shaquilleoatmeal
20:28
don't give me anxiety
JumpySubsequentDolphin
20:28
interesante
BulbasaurNoLikeCardio
20:37
Taking a legal analysis and writing class to prep and get some working knowledge for 1L..... 185 pages of case study to summarize and right a report and analysis on relating it to potential litigation. Five days to do it while working and my other classes
20:38
no berk til the 8th??? who said that
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