Latin meaning “in fear.” This phrase is used to describe provisions in contracts or wills meant to scare a person into complying with the terms of the agreement. For example, a will might state that an heir will forfeit her inheritance if she challenges the validity of the will. Of course, if the will is challenged and found to be invalid, then the clause itself is also invalid and the heir takes whatever she would have inherited if there were no will.
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/in-terrorem/
- Modern Language Association (MLA):In Terrorem. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. May 01 2024 https://dlssolicitors.com/define/in-terrorem/.
- Chicago Manual of Style (CMS):In Terrorem. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. https://dlssolicitors.com/define/in-terrorem/ (accessed: May 01 2024).
- American Psychological Association (APA):In Terrorem. dlssolicitors.com. Retrieved May 01 2024, from dlssolicitors.com website: https://dlssolicitors.com/define/in-terrorem/