Legal Definitions - deem

Definition: To treat something as if it were something else or had qualities that it does not have. It can also mean to consider, think, or judge.

For example, if a document was not signed until April 21 but explicitly states that it must be deemed to have been signed on April 14, it means that it should be treated as if it was signed on April 14. This is an example of using "deem" to establish a legal fiction.

Another example is when someone deems it necessary to take a certain action. This means that they consider it necessary or judge it to be necessary.

It is important to note that "deeming" creates an artificiality and should only be used when necessary to establish a legal fiction. In other cases, it is better to use simpler language such as "thinks" or "considers."