Deus Ex Machina: Exploring Its Meaning and Legal Significance
Definition & Meaning
Deus ex machina is a Latin phrase that translates to "god out of the machine." In literature and theater, it refers to a plot device where an unexpected power or event saves a seemingly hopeless situation. This term originated from ancient Greek and Roman drama, where a god would be lowered onto the stage using machinery to resolve complex conflicts or crises. The intervention of this divine figure often appears sudden and unexpected, providing a solution that characters could not achieve on their own.
Legal Use & context
In legal contexts, the term deus ex machina is not commonly used in a formal sense. However, it can metaphorically describe situations where an unexpected legal ruling or intervention resolves a complicated case. This can occur in various areas of law, including:
- Civil law, where a judge's decision may unexpectedly favor one party.
- Criminal law, where new evidence suddenly alters the outcome of a trial.
- Family law, where a mediation session leads to an unforeseen agreement.
Users facing legal challenges may find it beneficial to utilize legal templates from US Legal Forms to navigate these situations more effectively.
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
One example of a deus ex machina in a legal context might be:
- Hypothetical example: A defendant in a criminal trial is acquitted after a surprise witness comes forward with exonerating evidence at the last minute.
- Hypothetical example: In a civil lawsuit, a settlement is reached unexpectedly during a mediation session, resolving a dispute that seemed likely to go to trial.