Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Special registration refers to a process of registering for a specific purpose or under special circumstances. For example, if you are a foreign national living in the United States, you may be required to undergo special registration with the government.
The special relationship doctrine is a legal theory that holds the state responsible for protecting individuals who are under its control. This applies in situations where the state has assumed control over an individual, such as in involuntary hospitalization or custody.
For example, if a person is involuntarily committed to a mental health facility, the state has a duty to protect them from harm. If the person is injured by a third party while in the facility, the state may be liable for the harm inflicted on the individual.
The special relationship doctrine is an exception to the general principle that prohibits members of the public from suing state employees for failing to protect them from third parties. It is also known as the special relationship exception.
Another example of the special relationship doctrine is when a person is in police custody. The police have a duty to protect the person from harm while they are in custody. If the person is injured by another inmate while in custody, the police may be liable for the harm inflicted on the individual.