Legal Definitions - natural

The term "natural" in a legal context refers to something that exists, occurs, or is inherent without human intervention, artificial means, or external influence. It often distinguishes between conditions or relationships that arise organically versus those that are created or altered by human action or design.

• Occurring Without External Interference

  This refers to events or conditions that happen as part of the ordinary course of things, without deliberate human action or unusual external forces causing them.

  • Example 1: A homeowner's insurance policy might cover damage caused by a natural disaster like a hurricane, but not damage resulting from arson (a purposeful act).
  • Explanation: Here, "natural" distinguishes an event caused by environmental forces from one caused by human intent.
  • Example 2: A medical examiner might determine that a person died of natural causes, such as a sudden heart attack due to pre-existing health conditions, rather than from an accident or foul play.
  • Explanation: In this context, "natural" signifies that the death was a result of the body's own processes or inherent vulnerabilities, not an external, violent, or intentional act.
• Inherent, Characteristic, or Innate

  This meaning describes qualities, abilities, or behaviors that are intrinsic to a person or thing, rather than being acquired, taught, or assumed.

  • Example 1: A child might display a natural curiosity, constantly asking "why" and exploring their surroundings without being prompted.
  • Explanation: This illustrates an inborn trait or inclination, not a learned behavior.
  • Example 2: A musician might be described as having a natural talent for composition, effortlessly creating melodies and harmonies that others struggle to develop.
  • Explanation: Here, "natural" refers to an innate ability or aptitude that seems to come without extensive effort or training.
• Formed or Existing by Nature, Not Artificial

  This distinguishes things that are created or exist through geological, biological, or environmental processes from those that are man-made or artificial.

  • Example 1: A town might rely on a natural spring for its drinking water, rather than a well drilled by human engineering.
  • Explanation: This highlights that the water source is a product of geological processes, not human construction.
  • Example 2: Conservation efforts might focus on preserving a natural forest, which grew without human planting or cultivation, as opposed to a commercial timber plantation.
  • Explanation: "Natural" here emphasizes the spontaneous, uncultivated origin of the forest.
• Relating to Biological Birth or Origin

  This usage refers to relationships or origins based on biological ties, as opposed to legal adoption or citizenship by naturalization.

  • Example 1: In family law, a natural parent refers to a biological mother or father, as distinct from an adoptive parent.
  • Explanation: This clarifies the relationship based on biological lineage.
  • Example 2: A person born within the borders of a country is typically considered a natural citizen of that country, as opposed to someone who becomes a citizen through a legal application process.
  • Explanation: This distinguishes citizenship acquired by birthright from citizenship acquired through legal procedures.