Legal Definitions - integer

The term integer is an archaic legal adjective meaning whole, untouched, unimpaired, or undiminished. It refers to something that remains in its original, complete state, without any alteration, division, or prior legal determination. It is closely related to the concept of res nova, which refers to a new or undecided point of law, or a new thing.

• Example 1: An Original Document
  In a complex intellectual property dispute, a crucial piece of evidence is the original, unedited source code for a software program. The defense argues that this code is integer, meaning it has not been altered or tampered with since its creation. Its untouched state is vital for proving its authenticity and originality in court.

• Example 2: A Novel Legal Question
  A state supreme court is presented with a case involving the legal rights of sentient artificial intelligence, a matter for which no existing statutes or precedents provide clear guidance. The court acknowledges that this is an integer legal question, meaning it is entirely new and untouched by previous judicial decisions, requiring a ruling of first impression (a res nova).

• Example 3: Undivided Property
  A family owns a large, undeveloped parcel of land that has been passed down through generations without ever being subdivided or having any permanent structures built upon it. Before any potential sale or development, the land is considered integer, referring to its complete, undivided, and untouched state as a single entity.