Lesser Harm
/ˈlɛsər hɑrm/
Definitions
- (n.) A principle in law and ethics that justifies choosing an action causing less harm when all options result in some harm.
The court applied the lesser harm principle to justify the defendant's decision.
Forms
- lesser harm
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Often invoked in necessity defenses, the lesser harm principle requires balancing harms pragmatically, typically favoring the option that minimizes overall damage.
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.