Circumstances as such as do not constitute a justification or excuse of the offense in question, but which, in fairness and mercy, may be con-sidered as extenuating or reducing the degree of moral culpability. … [Read more...]

The short statement of purpose or goals of an organization. … [Read more...]

Secondary facts that don't completely negate or absolve a wrongful action but tend to show that the defendant's culpability should be placed a lesser level. For example, a defendant may have used a gun recklessly and should be held responsible for injuring another person. However, evidence may show that the defendant had good reasons to be afraid and that some degree of the … [Read more...]

In Scotch law. Writings passed between parties as evidence of a transaction. … [Read more...]

Alleviation; abatement or diminution of a penalty or punishment imposed by law. "Mitigating circumstances" are such as do not constitute a justification or excuse of the offense in question, but which, in fairness and mercy, may be considered as extenuating or reducing the degree of moral culpability. Mitigation of damages. A reduction of the amount of damages, not by proof of … [Read more...]