Lying By: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Meaning and Effects

Definition & Meaning

Lying by refers to the act of being present at a transaction that impacts one's interests while choosing to remain silent. This silence can be interpreted as consent to the transaction. When a person is present but does not voice any objections, courts often view this as an agreement to the terms, meaning they cannot later contest the transaction.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A person attends a property sale where they have a financial interest but does not speak up about concerns. Later, they cannot challenge the sale because their silence was interpreted as agreement.

Example 2: During a business partnership meeting, a stakeholder remains silent about a proposed merger. If the merger proceeds, they cannot later dispute it based on their prior silence. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Notes
California Silence may be interpreted as consent in property transactions.
New York Presence without objection can lead to binding agreements in business dealings.
Texas Similar principles apply, but specific statutes may vary.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Consent Agreement to a transaction or decision. Consent is explicit, while lying by can be implied through silence.
Assent Agreement to a proposal or plan. Assent can be verbal or written, whereas lying by is non-verbal.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you find yourself in a situation where lying by may apply, consider the following steps:

  • Review the details of the transaction you were involved in.
  • Consult legal resources or templates available through US Legal Forms to understand your options.
  • If the matter is complex or significant, seek professional legal advice to explore your rights and obligations.

Quick facts

  • Typical fees: Varies by legal counsel.
  • Jurisdiction: Applicable in civil and contract law.
  • Possible penalties: Loss of the right to contest the transaction.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

Lying by means being present at a transaction and remaining silent, which can be interpreted as agreement to the transaction.