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Simple English definitions for legal terms
duress
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A quick definition of duress:
Duress: When someone threatens or forces another person to do something they wouldn't normally do, it's called duress. This can happen when someone uses illegal or harmful behavior to make someone else act a certain way. The person being threatened may feel like they have no choice but to do what the other person wants. This is not okay and is against the law.
A more thorough explanation:
Duress is when someone is forced to do something they wouldn't normally do because of threats or other types of pressure. This pressure can be physical or emotional and can make someone feel like they have no choice but to comply.
For example, if someone is being threatened with violence unless they sign a contract, that would be considered duress. Another example could be if someone is being emotionally manipulated into doing something they don't want to do, like giving away their money.
These examples illustrate the definition of duress because in both cases, the person is being forced to do something against their will. They are not making a choice freely, but rather are being coerced into doing something they wouldn't normally do.