Legal Definitions - forfeit

Definition: Forfeit or forfeiture means losing a right, privilege, or property without compensation as a consequence of violating the law, breaching a legal obligation, failing to perform a contractual obligation or condition, or neglecting a legal duty. Under federal law, there are civil, criminal, and administrative forfeitures.

Example: If a person is caught driving under the influence of alcohol, they may forfeit their driver's license as a consequence of violating the law. Similarly, if a tenant fails to pay rent, they may forfeit their right to continue living in the rental property.

These examples illustrate how a person can lose a right or privilege as a result of their actions or inactions. In both cases, the individual is not compensated for their loss and must face the consequences of their behavior.