Warning
Info
Warning
Info
Simple English definitions for legal terms
act of God
Read a random definition: peremptory challenge
A quick definition of act of God:
Term: Act of God
Definition: An act of God is a natural event that is very severe and unexpected, and no one can be blamed for it. It can be something like a hurricane, earthquake, or flood. Sometimes people use this term to say that they are not responsible for something bad that happened because it was caused by an act of God. For example, if a storm damages a building, the owner might say it was an act of God and they are not responsible for fixing it. Some contracts have a clause that says if an act of God happens, the contract can be cancelled or delayed. Some insurance policies do not cover damage caused by an act of God. Even though scientists can predict some natural events now, the term act of God is still used in some legal cases.
A more thorough explanation:
An act of God is a natural event that is severe and unexpected, and for which no human is responsible. This term is often used in legal contexts, even though it has religious connotations.
- A hurricane that destroys a city is considered an act of God.
- An earthquake that causes a bridge to collapse is also an act of God.
- Contracts often include an act of God clause, which allows for non-performance if an unforeseeable natural event makes it impossible to complete the contract.
- Insurance policies may exclude coverage for acts of God, such as floods or earthquakes.
These examples illustrate how an act of God is an event that is beyond human control and responsibility. It can cause significant damage and disruption, and may be used as a defense in legal cases.