Judicial Deference
/ˈdʒuːdɪʃəl dɪˈfɛrəns/
Definitions
- (n.) The principle whereby courts yield to the judgment or interpretation of administrative agencies, legislatures, or lower courts in certain contexts.
The Supreme Court showed judicial deference to the agency's expertise in environmental regulation.
- (n.) Recognition of the discretion given to trial courts in fact-finding and legal rulings unless clearly erroneous or arbitrary.
Appellate courts often extend judicial deference to the trial judge's credibility assessments.
Related terms
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Commentary
Judicial deference varies by context; for example, deference to agencies under Chevron is distinct from deference to trial courts on factual findings. Precise referencing to the applicable standard of review is important in drafting judicial opinions or legal arguments.
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.