In law, an affirmative defense is a complete or partial defense to a civil or criminal claim based on facts other than those alleged by the plaintiff or prosecutor. An affirmative defense alleges facts that, if proven by the defendant, would defeat or reduce a claim even if the allegations alleged in the claim are all proven. In civil lawsuits, affirmative defenses include the statute of limitations, the statute of frauds, and waiver. In criminal prosecutions, examples affirmative defenses include self defense, insanity, and the statute of limitations.
Read more about Affirmative Defense: Description, Examples
Famous quotes containing the words affirmative and/or defense:
“Some rough political choices lie ahead. Should affirmative action be retained? Should preference be given to people on the basis of income rather than race? Should the system beand can it bescrapped altogether?”
—David K. Shipler (b. 1942)
“I would remind you that extremism in the defense of liberty is no vice! And let me remind you also that moderation in the pursuit of justice is no virtue!”
—Barry Goldwater (b. 1909)