Supersede: What It Means in Legal Contexts and Its Significance

Definition & Meaning

The term supersede means to replace or set aside a previous law, regulation, or agreement with a new one. When a new statute is enacted, it can nullify or abrogate the earlier statute, making it ineffective. For instance, if a new law is passed in 2009, it may supersede an earlier law from 1993, meaning the 1993 law is no longer valid.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A state passes a new environmental regulation in 2020 that supersedes an older regulation from 2010. This means that the 2010 regulation is no longer enforceable.

Example 2: A new federal law regarding healthcare privacy is enacted, superseding previous laws that governed patient information. This change ensures that healthcare providers must follow the new guidelines instead of the outdated ones.

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Example of Supersession
California New environmental laws may supersede older regulations regarding emissions.
Texas Recent updates to property laws can supersede previous statutes affecting land use.

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

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition
Abrogate To formally abolish or annul a law or agreement.
Repeal To revoke or annul a law by legislative action.
Modify To make partial changes to a law without completely superseding it.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe a law that affects you has been superseded, consider the following steps:

  • Review the new statute to understand its implications.
  • Consult legal resources or templates available through US Legal Forms to assist with any necessary actions.
  • If the situation is complex, seek advice from a qualified attorney to ensure compliance with the new law.

Quick facts

  • Common Use: Legal contexts involving new laws replacing old ones.
  • Typical Impact: Changes in legal obligations or rights.
  • Example: A new tax law supersedes previous tax regulations.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It means that a new law has replaced the old law, making the old law no longer valid.