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Simple English definitions for legal terms
desuetude
Read a random definition: Slaughterhouse Cases
A quick definition of desuetude:
Desuetude means something is no longer used or has become obsolete due to lack of use. It can also refer to the idea that if a law or agreement is not enforced for a long time, it may no longer be considered legally binding. This is not a widely accepted legal principle and is only used in certain situations. In English law, a statute is not considered obsolete unless it is explicitly repealed by a later law.
A more thorough explanation:
Desuetude (pronounced des-wuh-tood) is a legal term that refers to the lack of use or obsolescence through disuse. It can also refer to the doctrine that if a law or treaty is not enforced for a long time, it may no longer have any legal effect even if it has not been officially repealed.
For example, if a law is passed but is never enforced, it may fall into desuetude and become obsolete. This means that even though the law is still technically on the books, it is no longer considered to be in effect.
Another example of desuetude is the doctrine that if a law or treaty is not enforced for a long time, it may no longer be considered legally binding. This means that even though the law or treaty has not been officially repealed, it may no longer be enforced because it has fallen into disuse.
Overall, desuetude is a legal concept that refers to the lack of use or obsolescence through disuse. It can have important implications for the enforceability of laws and treaties, and it is important for legal professionals to understand this concept in order to properly interpret and apply the law.