Nullity Definition and Legal Meaning

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

What is Nullity?

History and Meaning of Nullity

The term "nullity" is used in legal language to refer to something that has no legal effect or validity. This can refer to a contract, a marriage, or any other type of legal proceeding. In order for something to be considered null and void, it must be found to have no legal force from the beginning. This means that it was never valid to begin with, and therefore can have no legal significance.

The concept of nullity has been present in legal systems for centuries, with various forms of it appearing in both common law and civil law systems. It is often used in cases where fraud or misrepresentation has occurred, or where the terms of a contract or agreement were not fulfilled or were otherwise flawed.

Examples of Nullity

1. A marriage can be declared null and void if it was entered into under false pretenses or if one of the parties was not legally able to enter into the marriage.
2. A contract can be declared null and void if it was signed under duress or if one of the parties was not of sound mind at the time of signing.
3. A court ruling can be declared null and void if it was made in error or based on false information.

Legal Terms Similar to Nullity

1. Void: Like nullity, void refers to something that has no legal force or effect. However, void is often used to refer to something that was once legal but has since been invalidated.
2. Rescission: Rescission refers to the termination of a contract or agreement, usually due to a breach of the terms.
3. Annulment: An annulment is a legal process for declaring a marriage null and void. Unlike divorce, which ends a valid marriage, an annulment treats the marriage as if it never existed in the first place.