Vigilantes
/ˌvɪdʒəˈlæntiːz/
Definitions
- (n.) Individuals who take law enforcement into their own hands without legal authority, often to enforce community norms or seek justice.
The vigilantes patrolled the neighborhood to prevent crime after the police withdrew.
Forms
- vigilante
Related terms
See also
Commentary
The term typically denotes extra-legal action by private citizens, which can raise complex issues of legality and public policy.
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.