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Simple English definitions for legal terms
ostrich defense
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A quick definition of ostrich defense:
Ostrich defense is when someone accused of a crime claims they didn't know about the crime and tries to ignore it, like an ostrich hiding its head in the sand. It's not a good defense because people are responsible for knowing what's going on around them. There are other types of defenses, like saying you did something to protect yourself or that you didn't do what you're accused of, but ostrich defense is not a valid one.A more thorough explanation:
Definition: Ostrich defense is a defendant's method and strategy in opposing the plaintiff or the prosecution. It is a doctrine giving rise to such a method or strategy. It is named after the behavior of ostriches, which are believed to bury their heads in the sand when they sense danger.
Example: A criminal defendant's claim not to have known of the criminal activities of an associate is an example of an ostrich defense. The defendant is essentially burying their head in the sand and claiming ignorance of the situation.
This defense is not a valid legal defense and is often used as a strategy to avoid taking responsibility for one's actions. It is important to note that ignorance of the law is not a valid defense in most cases.