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Simple English definitions for legal terms
merits
Read a random definition: Trade and Development Program
A quick definition of merits:
Merits: The important reasons or facts that help decide a case, instead of small or unimportant details. For example, when a court decides a case, they look at the merits of the arguments presented, not just the rules of how the case should be handled. Sometimes, the merits of a case involve what is fair or right, not just what the law says.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: The elements or grounds of a claim or defense that are considered in deciding a case, as opposed to technical or extraneous points.
Examples:
- A trial on the merits focuses on the substantive considerations of a case, such as the evidence and arguments presented, rather than procedural issues.
- In a case involving euthanasia, the Supreme Court may consider the merits of the arguments for and against the practice, in addition to the legal aspects of the case.
These examples illustrate how the term "merits" refers to the essential elements of a case that are relevant to its outcome. In a trial on the merits, the focus is on the substantive issues that will determine the verdict, rather than technicalities or procedural matters. Similarly, in a case involving a controversial issue like euthanasia, the court may consider the merits of the arguments presented by both sides, in addition to the legal aspects of the case.