Renunciation, in a legal context, refers to the voluntary rejection or abandonment of a right, claim, entitlement, or inheritance by an individual. This act typically involves a formal declaration or written document expressing the individual’s intent to disclaim or relinquish the specified right or interest. Renunciation may occur for various reasons, such as a desire to avoid legal obligations, minimize tax liabilities, or prevent conflicts of interest. In the case of renouncing an inheritance, an individual may choose to renounce their right to inherit property or assets from a deceased person’s estate, effectively passing their share to other beneficiaries or heirs as if they had predeceased the decedent. Renunciation is governed by specific legal requirements and procedures, which may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the nature of the right or interest being renounced.
- giving up a right, such as a right of inheritance, a gift under a will or abandoning the right to collect a debt on a note.
- in criminal law, abandoning participation in a crime before it takes place, or an attempt to stop other participants from going ahead with the crime. A defendant may use renunciation as evidence of his/her innocence. Once the crime is underway, any claimed renunciation is factually too late.
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.
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