Legal Definitions - overt

The term overt describes something that is done openly, visibly, and without concealment. It refers to an action or behavior that is apparent and observable to others, rather than being hidden, secret, or merely an internal thought or plan.

Here are some examples to illustrate the meaning of overt:

• Imagine a company that publicly announces its intention to acquire a competitor through a press release and a conference call with investors. This public declaration is an overt act because it is openly communicated and observable by the market and the public. It's not a secret negotiation happening behind closed doors, but a clear, visible step in their business strategy.

• Consider a situation where a person is caught on security camera footage attempting to pick the lock of a jewelry store door in the middle of the night. The act of physically manipulating the lock with tools is an overt act. It's a visible, observable action that clearly demonstrates an attempt to commit a crime, rather than just having the thought or intention to do so.

• When a government agency publishes a new regulation in the official public record, making it accessible to all citizens, this is an overt action. The publication ensures that the new rule is not hidden or secret, but is openly declared and available for everyone to see and understand, demonstrating transparency in governance.