Cognitive Impairment
/ˈkɒɡ.nɪ.tɪv ɪmˈpɛər.mənt/
Definitions
- (n.) A legal term describing a diminished mental capacity that may affect an individual's ability to understand, decide, or enter contracts and other legal instruments.
The court must determine if the claimant's cognitive impairment affected his ability to consent to the contract.
- (n.) A recognized medical condition which may be considered in disability and guardianship law cases to establish incapacity or need for protection.
The guardian petition cited cognitive impairment as grounds for appointing a legal representative.
Related terms
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Commentary
In legal drafting, specify the extent and nature of cognitive impairment to clarify its impact on legal capacity; vague references may lead to disputes over validity of agreements or legal decisions.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.