Legal Definitions - suspension

Suspension refers to the temporary stopping, delaying, or removal of something. This can apply to an activity, a process, a right, a privilege, or a person's status, with the understanding that it is not necessarily permanent and may be reinstated after a certain period or condition is met.

• Example 1: Government Action
  A state environmental agency might issue a suspension on all new fracking permits in a region after a series of minor earthquakes are linked to drilling activity. This allows time for further scientific study and the development of stricter safety protocols.

  Explanation: Here, 'suspension' means the temporary halt of a specific activity (issuing permits) by a government body. It's not a permanent ban but a pause to investigate and implement changes, with the expectation that permitting may resume under new conditions.

• Example 2: Professional Discipline
  If an accountant is found to have mishandled client funds, their professional license might face a two-year suspension by the state's licensing board. During this time, they are legally prohibited from practicing accounting.

  Explanation: This illustrates the temporary removal of a professional's right or privilege to practice their profession. It's a disciplinary measure that prevents them from working in their field for a specified period, after which they may apply for reinstatement.

• Example 3: Organizational Membership or Privileges
  A member of a professional association could face a six-month suspension from the organization for repeatedly violating its code of conduct, such as sharing confidential information. During this period, they would lose access to member benefits and voting rights.

  Explanation: In this context, 'suspension' signifies the temporary deprivation of a person's membership status and associated privileges within an organization. It's a disciplinary action that removes certain rights for a defined time, rather than permanently expelling the individual.