Legal Definitions - lie

In legal contexts, "lie" carries multiple meanings. It can refer to making a false statement, particularly under oath, which may have serious legal consequences. Alternatively, it describes a legal action or claim that is valid and supportable by law, or indicates where a particular authority or responsibility is situated.

In legal contexts, the term "lie" can have several distinct meanings, which differ significantly from its common usage.

• 1. To tell an untruth; to speak or write falsely.

  This meaning is similar to its everyday use, referring to the act of intentionally making a false statement, either verbally or in writing, with the intent to deceive.

  • Example 1: During a job interview, the candidate lied about their previous work experience, claiming to have managed a team when they had not.

    Explanation: This illustrates the act of making a false verbal statement to mislead the interviewer.

  • Example 2: A company's financial report was found to have lied about its revenue figures, presenting inflated numbers to investors.

    Explanation: Here, "lied" refers to the act of presenting false information in a written document.

  • Example 3: In a sworn affidavit, a witness lied about seeing the defendant at the scene of the crime, despite having been elsewhere.

    Explanation: This demonstrates making a false statement in a formal, written legal document, which can have serious consequences.

• 2. To have foundation in the law; to be legally supportable, sustainable, or proper.

  In this sense, "lie" refers to whether a legal claim, action, or defense is valid or permissible under the law. If something "lies," it means there is a legal basis or justification for it.

  • Example 1: A claim for breach of contract lies against a vendor who failed to deliver goods as specified in the agreement.

    Explanation: This means that under contract law, there is a valid legal basis for the aggrieved party to pursue a claim for damages.

  • Example 2: An appeal lies against the administrative board's decision if it can be demonstrated that they exceeded their statutory authority.

    Explanation: This indicates that there is a legally recognized pathway or justification for challenging the board's ruling in a higher court.

  • Example 3: A defense of necessity lies for an individual who committed a minor offense to prevent a greater harm.

    Explanation: This means that the law recognizes necessity as a legitimate justification for certain actions under specific, extreme circumstances.

• 3. To exist; to reside.

  This usage indicates where authority, responsibility, or a particular power is located or belongs within a legal or organizational structure.

  • Example 1: The ultimate authority to approve a merger lies with the company's shareholders.

    Explanation: This clarifies that the power to make this specific decision is vested in the shareholders.

  • Example 2: The responsibility for maintaining public safety in the city lies with the municipal police department.

    Explanation: This specifies which entity is charged with the duty of ensuring public safety.

  • Example 3: The power to interpret the constitutionality of new legislation lies with the judicial branch of government.

    Explanation: This explains that the specific power of constitutional review is held by the courts.