Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Void for vagueness: This is a legal term that means a law or document is not clear enough to be valid. In criminal law, a law can be void for vagueness if it doesn't clearly state what is required or what behavior is punishable. This can also happen if a law gives too much power to judges or administrators, which could lead to unfair prosecutions. In property law, a document like a deed can be void for vagueness if it doesn't clearly describe the property it's supposed to affect.
Definition: Void for vagueness is a legal term used to declare a law or instrument invalid because it lacks clarity or specificity.
There are three main contexts in which the term is used:
Illustrative caselaw: In Skilling v. United States, the Supreme Court found that the "honest services" statute was void for vagueness because it did not clearly define what conduct was prohibited. This led to confusion and arbitrary enforcement.
Example: A city ordinance prohibits "loud and disruptive behavior" in public places. However, the ordinance does not provide a clear definition of what constitutes "loud and disruptive behavior." As a result, police officers may interpret the law differently, leading to arbitrary enforcement and confusion among citizens. This ordinance could be considered void for vagueness.