Demurral Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
⚖️
demurral
[dɪˈmɜːrəl ]
Definition
legal context
Demurral is a legal term that refers to a defendant's formal response to a complaint, whereby they assert that even if the allegations made by the plaintiff are true, there is insufficient legal grounds to proceed with the case. This typically results in the court's need to rule on the sufficiency of the complaint before moving forward.
Synonyms
challenge, objection, response.
Examples of usage
- The lawyer filed a demurral to challenge the sufficiency of the evidence.
- After reviewing the charges, he decided to enter a demurral instead of a plea.
- The judge sustained the demurral, dismissing the case against the defendant.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Law
- In legal terms, a demurral can be a formal objection to the validity of a legal claim.
- Judges often review demurrals to decide if a case should proceed based on its merits.
- This term is important in pleadings, where a party challenges the legal sufficiency of another's arguments.
Philosophy
- Demurral often reflects a deeper level of critical thinking, suggesting skepticism toward common assumptions.
- Philosophers might encourage demurral as a method to engage more thoroughly with an argument.
- This stance reinforces the value of questioning ideas rather than accepting them at face value.
Psychology
- Individuals may exhibit demurral as a coping mechanism to avoid conflict, showing a desire for harmony.
- The act of demurring can also lead to self-reflection, helping the individual understand their own values better.
- People often experience cognitive dissonance when they demur, revealing discomfort between their beliefs and actions.
Pop Culture
- Demurral in popular media often portrays characters who are skeptical or hesitant to follow group norms.
- In films and literature, a character’s demurral can serve as a pivotal plot twist, showcasing inner conflict.
- The prevalence of demurral in dialogues often illustrates the complexities of human relationships.
Origin of 'demurral'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Middle French 'demurer', meaning 'to delay or stay'.
- Its roots trace back to the Latin 'mora', which means 'delay'.
- The transition to modern usage began in English around the late 16th century.
The term 'demurral' originates from the Middle English word 'demuren', which means to delay or postpone. This is derived from the Anglo-French term 'demurer', meaning to remain or hesitate. In the legal context, it has evolved to represent a formal objection to the sufficiency of the legal action against a party. The roots of the word can be traced further back to Latin 'morari', which means to delay or hinder. As such, 'demurral' has maintained its connection to the concept of hesitation or objection in legal proceedings, and has become a critical aspect of civil litigation.