An a fortiori argument is a logical reasoning method that draws a conclusion from a stronger claim to support a weaker one. The term comes from the Latin phrase "argumentum a fortiori," meaning "from the stronger." This type of argument is useful in various contexts, particularly in legal discussions, where proving a point can rely on established, stronger propositions.
A fortiori arguments are often utilized in legal settings to strengthen a case. They can be found in various areas of law, including:
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Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: If a law allows for a penalty of five years for theft, one could argue a fortiori that a penalty for armed robbery, which is a more serious offense, should be longer than five years.
Example 2: If a court has previously ruled that a child should live with a parent who has a stable job, one might argue that a parent with a more secure and higher-paying job should have even greater custody rights. (hypothetical example)
| Term | Definition | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| A fortiori argument | Argument from a stronger claim to a weaker claim. | Focuses on logical strength of claims. |
| A contrario argument | Argument from the opposite case. | Focuses on contrasting claims rather than strengthening them. |
If you believe an a fortiori argument applies to your legal situation, consider gathering evidence that supports the stronger claim. You can explore templates on US Legal Forms to help you draft necessary documents. If your case is complex, consulting with a legal professional is advisable.
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It is a logical argument that infers a conclusion from a stronger claim to support a weaker one.