Deus Ex Machina
/ˈdeɪ.əs ɛks ˈmæk.ɪ.nə/
Definitions
- (n.) A plot device or intervention that resolves a legal dispute or issue in an abrupt, unexpected manner, often considered artificial or contrived.
The judge's ruling was criticized as a deus ex machina that bypassed thorough legal analysis.
Related terms
Commentary
In legal contexts, deus ex machina denotes an unexpected or contrived resolution to a case, cautioning against reliance on such devices instead of solid legal reasoning.
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.