Legal Definitions - surprise

Definition: An unexpected event or situation that catches someone off guard.

For example, in a legal trial, the rules are in place to prevent surprise or ambush tactics. This means that both parties are allowed to gather information and evidence beforehand through a process called discovery. If one party were to call a witness that was not previously identified, their testimony could be excluded if it unfairly surprises or prejudices the other party. Additionally, if a party has prepared their case but is still taken by surprise during the trial, they may be able to request a new trial or relief from the judgment.

Another example of surprise could be receiving an unexpected gift or winning a prize without any prior knowledge or expectation.

These examples illustrate how surprise can be an unexpected event or situation that catches someone off guard, often without any prior warning or preparation.