Frame Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Frame, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Frame?

History and Meaning of Frame

The term "frame" in legal context means to present false evidence against someone to implicate them in a crime they did not commit. This act is illegal and can be considered as obstruction of justice. The origins of the term come from the idea of putting someone in a "frame," like a picture in a frame, meaning falsely making someone appear guilty.

Examples of Frame

1. A police officer plants drugs in a suspect's car, then arrests the suspect for drug possession.

2. An ex-spouse plants false evidence to implicate their former partner in a crime they did not commit, in an attempt to gain custody of their children.

3. A competitor plants fake documents in a company's office to implicate them in tax fraud, causing their business to suffer.

Legal Terms Similar to Frame

1. Fabrication of evidence: the act of creating false evidence against someone.

2. Planting evidence: the act of placing evidence where it would not naturally be found to implicate someone in a crime.

3. Obstruction of justice: the act of interfering with the judicial process, including the use of false evidence.