Rational Basis

/ˈræʃənəl ˈbeɪsɪs/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A standard of judicial review requiring government actions to be rationally related to a legitimate government interest.
    The court applied the rational basis test to uphold the statute.

Forms

  • rational basis

Commentary

Used primarily in constitutional law to evaluate laws that do not affect fundamental rights or involve suspect classifications; the most deferential standard of review.

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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