Severity
/sɪˈvɛrɪti/
Definitions
- (n.) The degree of harshness, seriousness, or strictness of a penalty, injury, or legal consequence.
The court considered the severity of the crime when determining the sentence.
- (n.) The extent to which harm or damage is serious or intense in legal contexts such as personal injury or tort law.
The severity of the plaintiff's injuries was critical to the damages awarded.
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Severity often influences sentencing and damages calculation; precise quantification can impact legal outcomes significantly.
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.