Legal Definitions - sojourn

Sojourn

A sojourn refers to a temporary stay in a place by someone who is not merely passing through but also not establishing permanent residence. It implies a period of dwelling for a specific purpose or duration, distinct from a brief visit or a permanent relocation.

• Example 1: Dr. Anya Sharma, a renowned astrophysicist, undertook a six-month sojourn at the international observatory in Chile to collaborate on a new research project. During this time, she rented a small apartment, participated in local community events, and fully immersed herself in her work, knowing she would return to her home country afterward.

  Explanation: Dr. Sharma's stay is a sojourn because it is temporary and purposeful (research collaboration), involves more than just passing through (renting an apartment, community involvement), but is not intended to be a permanent move.

• Example 2: After their home was damaged by a hurricane, the Miller family made a year-long sojourn in a furnished rental property in a neighboring town while their house underwent extensive repairs.

  Explanation: The Miller family's stay is a sojourn because it is a temporary dwelling for a specific period (one year) due to circumstances, rather than a permanent relocation. They are not just visiting, but living there with the intention of returning to their original home.

• Example 3: An aspiring writer spent a three-month sojourn at a remote artists' retreat in the mountains, seeking solitude and inspiration to complete her novel.

  Explanation: This is a sojourn because the writer's stay is temporary and has a clear purpose (writing the novel). She is living there for an extended period, not just visiting, but does not intend to make it her permanent home.