Repeal Definition and Legal Meaning

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

What is Repeal?

(V) Repeal is the process of negating an order, law, statute etc as per the provisions contained in the statue to withdraw such a law, order etc to make it ineffective. So every ACT contains a provision for repealing earlier acts to avoid conflicting provisions

History and Meaning of Repeal

Repeal is a legal term used to refer to the act of revoking a law, order, or statute through legislative or administrative action. It is a common practice in every legal system to repeal earlier laws to avoid conflicting provisions.

The concept of repeal dates back to ancient Rome, where the lawmakers had the power to repeal laws that were found to be unconstitutional or outdated. This concept was later introduced in modern legal systems, where the legislature has the power to repeal laws that are no longer relevant or effective.

Examples of Repeal

  1. In 2018, the U.S. Congress voted to repeal the net neutrality rules that were put in place during the Obama administration.
  2. In the UK, the Human Rights Act (1998) repealed and replaced parts of the UK's Bill of Rights (1689).
  3. The Indian parliament repealed the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act in 2020.
  4. In 2019, the Australian legislature repealed a section of the Migration Act that allowed for the detention of asylum seekers who arrived by boat.
  5. In 2017, the Brazilian government announced plans to repeal a decree that allowed mining in the Amazon rainforest.

Legal Terms Similar to Repeal

  1. Amend - To modify or change a law or statute.
  2. Nullify - To render a law or order without legal effect.
  3. Abrogate - To repeal or abolish a law or agreement.
  4. Rescind - To cancel or revoke a law or order.
  5. Annul - To declare a law or agreement as invalid from its inception.