instance

Legal TermLegal glossary term

Legal Definition

In a legal context, an instance refers to a specific occurrence, event, or case of something, often used to denote a single unit or occurrence within a larger set of facts or proceedings. It signifies a singular manifestation of a condition, situation, or entity under review.

Plain-English Translation

Imagine 'instance' as one specific thing happening—like one particular instance of a rule being broken, or one specific case in a lawsuit. It means one single occurrence out of many possibilities.

Context in Contracts

It matters because it is used to pinpoint a specific event, a particular instance of a breach, a specific case in litigation, or a singular unit of analysis required for determining liability or compliance.

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01

The plaintiff's instance of injury under the contract clause.

02

A specific instance of non-compliance with a regulation.

Document context

How instance shows up in legal documents

What is it?

A single occurrence, event, or manifestation of a condition, situation, or entity under consideration within a legal context.

Why does it matter?

It matters because it is used to pinpoint a specific event, a particular instance of a breach, a specific case in litigation, or a singular unit of analysis required for determining liability or compliance.

When does it matter?

When referring to a single occurrence within a set of facts, a specific legal action, or a specific entity being examined during a dispute or regulatory review.

Where is it usually seen?

In legal documents such as pleadings, contracts, regulatory filings, or litigation records where a specific event or situation is referenced.

Who is affected?

Affected parties, including litigants, regulatory bodies, or parties in a contract, who are being assessed based on the singular instance of an action or condition.

How does it work?

It works by identifying one specific occurrence within a series of events, often used to establish a factual basis for a claim or defense, or to define a single unit of analysis in a legal proceeding.

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Wikipedia

Instance variable

In class-based, object-oriented programming, an instance variable is a variable defined in a class (i.e., a member variable), for which each instantiated object of the class has a separate copy, or instance. An instance variable has similarities with a class...

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Disclaimer: We do not provide legal advice. We translate legal language into plain English and help you prepare for a conversation with a lawyer.