First impression, in a legal context, refers to a case or legal issue that presents a novel question or point of law not previously addressed by courts. When a court faces a legal issue for the first time, it is said to be deciding the matter “of first impression.” In such cases, there may be no binding precedent or existing legal authority to guide the court’s decision. The court must analyse relevant statutes, regulations, case law from other jurisdictions, legal principles, and policy considerations to reach its decision. The outcome of a case of first impression can establish new legal principles and set precedent for future similar cases.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 29th March 2024.
To help you cite our definitions in your bibliography, here is the proper citation layout for the three major formatting styles, with all of the relevant information filled in.
- Page URL:https://dlssolicitors.com/define/first-impression/
- Modern Language Association (MLA):First Impression. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. May 02 2024 https://dlssolicitors.com/define/first-impression/.
- Chicago Manual of Style (CMS):First Impression. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. https://dlssolicitors.com/define/first-impression/ (accessed: May 02 2024).
- American Psychological Association (APA):First Impression. dlssolicitors.com. Retrieved May 02 2024, from dlssolicitors.com website: https://dlssolicitors.com/define/first-impression/