
affirmative defense
An affirmative defense is a legal strategy used by a defendant in a court case. Instead of just denying the allegations, the defendant admits to the actions but provides a valid reason or justification that could lead to a not guilty verdict. For example, in a theft case, a defendant might admit to taking an item but argue it was necessary to prevent harm. Essentially, an affirmative defense shifts the focus from whether the defendant committed the act to whether there was a legally acceptable reason for doing so.
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An affirmative defense is a legal strategy used by a defendant in a lawsuit or criminal case. It acknowledges the allegations but introduces new information or reasoning that, if proven, could lead to a dismissal of the charges or a favorable outcome. For example, in a self-defense case, the defendant admits to using force but argues it was necessary to protect themselves. Essentially, it shifts the focus from just denying the claims to providing justifiable reasons that support the defendant's actions or circumstances.