Legal Definitions - amerce

Definition: To impose a fine or penalty that is not fixed but is left to the court's discretion; to punish by amercement. To fine or punish in any manner.

Example: In medieval times, if someone was found guilty of a crime, they could be amercied by the court and forced to pay a fine.

Explanation: The example illustrates how amerce is used to impose a fine or penalty on someone who has committed a crime. The amount of the fine is not fixed and is left to the court's discretion. This means that the court can decide how much the person should pay based on the severity of the crime.

Example: The company was amerciable for violating environmental regulations and was fined by the government.

Explanation: This example shows how amerce can be used to fine a company for violating regulations. The company is amerciable, meaning it is subject to being fined. The amount of the fine is not fixed and is left to the discretion of the government.

Example: The judge amercied the defendant for contempt of court.

Explanation: This example illustrates how amerce can be used to punish someone for contempt of court. The judge can decide how much the defendant should pay as a fine for their behavior.