Habitual Absence

/ˌhæbɪtʃuəl ˈæbsəns/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The repeated or frequent failure of a person, especially a student or employee, to be present at a required place over a period of time, often resulting in disciplinary or legal consequences.
    The school initiated proceedings due to the student's habitual absence without valid excuses.
  2. (n.) In family law, the persistent nonattendance or failure to reside in a marital home, potentially grounds for legal separation or divorce.
    Habitual absence of one spouse was cited as justification for the divorce petition.

Forms

  • habitual absence
  • habitual absences

Commentary

Habitual absence is context-dependent; in educational law it often relates to truancy, while in family law it can ground divorce or separation. Definitions should clarify the relevant legal context.

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.

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