Legal Definitions - beyond seas

Definition: Beyond seas refers to being absent from a jurisdiction or nation, especially across the ocean. This term was used when a person could not be served with a summons, notice, etc. because the person was absent from the jurisdiction. Some jurisdictions toll the statute of limitations during a defendant's absence. It can also mean out of state.

Examples:

• If a person moves to another country and commits a crime, they are considered beyond seas and may not be subject to the laws of their home country.
• If a person from New York travels to California and is involved in a car accident, they are considered beyond seas and may have to follow California's laws and regulations.

These examples illustrate how being beyond seas can affect a person's legal status and jurisdiction. It can impact how they are served with legal documents and which laws they are subject to.