Legal Definitions - per consequens

Per consequens is a Latin phrase meaning "by consequence" or "consequently." In legal contexts, it is used to indicate that a particular outcome, conclusion, or legal effect logically and directly follows from a preceding fact, action, or established legal principle.

Here are some examples illustrating how "per consequens" is applied:

• Example 1: Contractual Obligation

  A construction contract stipulated that the builder must complete the foundation by June 1st. If the builder fails to meet this deadline without a valid extension, per consequens, they would be in breach of contract and potentially liable for damages or penalties as outlined in the agreement. This illustrates that the breach and subsequent liability are direct consequences of not fulfilling the contractual obligation.

• Example 2: Evidentiary Ruling

  During a trial, the judge ruled that a key piece of evidence presented by the prosecution was inadmissible because it was obtained illegally. Per consequens, the prosecution could not use that evidence to support their case, which might significantly weaken their argument. This shows how the judge's ruling directly leads to the inability to use the evidence.

• Example 3: Regulatory Compliance

  A new environmental regulation was enacted, requiring all manufacturing plants to install specific air filtration systems by a certain date. If a plant fails to install the required system by the deadline, per consequens, it would be operating in violation of the law and could face fines or closure. Here, the violation and potential penalties are the direct result of non-compliance with the new regulation.