Legal Definitions - election

Definition: The act of choosing from several possible options or candidates.

Example: A primary election is held to choose the candidate who will represent a political party in the general election.

Election can also refer to the obligation to choose between alternative rights or claims. For example, a plaintiff who wins a lawsuit may be put to an election between out-of-pocket damages and lost profits.

Example: A person who inherits property and is also entitled to a benefit under a legal instrument may be required to make an equitable election between the two.

In addition, election can refer to the process of selecting a person for a position or title, such as a public office or award.

Example: The 2020 presidential election was a highly contested race between two major candidates.

Overall, election involves making a choice from among options or candidates, whether in a political, legal, or personal context.