Legal Definitions - obtest

Obtest is a verb that describes the act of appealing to someone or something with great seriousness, often by invoking a higher authority, a strong principle, or a sense of duty. It can also mean to earnestly request or implore, or to strongly protest.

Here are some examples to illustrate its use:

• Imagine a historical figure, facing a difficult decision, who might obtest the heavens or the spirits of their ancestors to guide their actions and bear witness to their honorable intentions. This illustrates the meaning of calling upon or invoking a higher power or principle as a witness to one's sincerity or resolve.

• Consider a community leader who, during a public meeting, might obtest the city council to reconsider a policy that would negatively impact vulnerable residents. They are not just asking, but making a fervent and earnest plea, perhaps invoking the council's duty to protect all citizens, thereby demonstrating the sense of beseeching or imploring.

• In a legal context, a lawyer might obtest against a judge's ruling, formally and strongly stating their objection and perhaps citing specific legal precedents or constitutional rights that they believe are being violated. This highlights the meaning of protesting or objecting with conviction and seriousness.