Legal Definitions - merits

Definition: The elements or grounds of a claim or defense that are considered in deciding a case, as opposed to technical or extraneous points.

Examples:

• A trial on the merits focuses on the substantive considerations of a case, such as the evidence and arguments presented, rather than procedural issues.
• In a case involving euthanasia, the Supreme Court may consider the merits of the arguments for and against the practice, in addition to the legal aspects of the case.

These examples illustrate how the term "merits" refers to the essential elements of a case that are relevant to its outcome. In a trial on the merits, the focus is on the substantive issues that will determine the verdict, rather than technicalities or procedural matters. Similarly, in a case involving a controversial issue like euthanasia, the court may consider the merits of the arguments presented by both sides, in addition to the legal aspects of the case.