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Simple English definitions for legal terms
Vagrancy
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A quick definition of Vagrancy:
Vagrancy is when someone doesn't have a permanent job, home, or things they need to live and they move around from place to place. Some laws that try to punish vagrancy are not fair because they are too unclear and violate people's rights.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: Roaming from place to place without a permanent job, home, or material resources. Many laws that target vagrancy have been declared invalid for being too vague and violating due process.
Illustrative caselaw:
- Papachristou v. City of Jacksonville, 405 U.S. 156 (1972)
Example: A person who has no fixed address and travels from city to city, sleeping on the streets and begging for money, is considered a vagrant.
Explanation: This example illustrates the definition of vagrancy because the person is constantly moving and does not have a permanent home or job. They rely on begging for money to survive, which is a common characteristic of vagrants. However, it is important to note that being a vagrant is not a crime in itself, and laws that target vagrancy must be specific and not violate due process.