Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Physical impossibility means that something cannot happen or be done because it is impossible. For example, if someone promised to deliver a package but the package was destroyed, they cannot be held responsible for not delivering it. This is because it was physically impossible for them to do so. The same goes for if a law prevents someone from doing something or if they become too sick to perform a task. However, if something is just too difficult or expensive, that is not considered physical impossibility.
Physical impossibility refers to a situation where something cannot occur, exist, or be done due to a fact or circumstance. In legal terms, physical impossibility can excuse contractual performance or prevent the commission of a crime.
These examples illustrate how physical impossibility can affect contractual performance and criminal activity. In the first example, the physical impossibility of building the house due to the destroyed land would excuse the construction company's performance. In the second example, the physical impossibility of committing theft due to an empty pocket would not be a defense to the crime of attempt.