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Simple English definitions for legal terms
public-interest exception
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A quick definition of public-interest exception:
A public-interest exception is a rule that allows an appellate court to make a decision on a case that is no longer relevant, if the case involves an important question that is likely to come up again in the future and has not been reviewed by the court before. This exception is only used in special circumstances and is meant to serve the public's interest.
A more thorough explanation:
The public-interest exception is a principle that allows an appellate court to consider and decide a moot case, even though such decisions are generally prohibited. This exception applies if the case involves a question of considerable public importance, the question is likely to arise in the future, and the question has evaded appellate review.
For example, if a court case involving a controversial law is dismissed because the law has been repealed, the public-interest exception may still apply if the law is likely to be reintroduced in the future. The court may decide to hear the case and issue a ruling on the constitutionality of the law to provide guidance for future cases.
Another example is a case involving a public health crisis, such as a pandemic. Even if the immediate crisis has passed, the court may still hear the case to provide guidance on how to handle similar situations in the future.