lenity

American  

[len-i-tee] / ˈlɛn ɪ ti /

noun

plural

lenities

1. the quality or state of being mild or gentle, as toward others.

2. a lenient act.

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lenity British  

/ ˈlɛnɪtɪ /

noun

1. the state or quality of being lenient

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Etymology

Origin of lenity

From the Latin word lēnītās, dating back to 1540–50. See lenis, -ty ²

Example Sentences

The better approach, he wrote, would be to apply the “rule of lenity,” under which ambiguous laws are construed to favor the defendant.

From New York Times

But he said he would rule for Wooden by applying the “rule of lenity.”

From Washington Post

The court cited the “rule of lenity,” saying that in the case of ambiguous wording or legislative intent that could not be determined, the defendant is entitled to the “benefit of any rational doubt.”

From Washington Times

Dershowitz further suggested that the "rule of lenity," or the legal doctrine that ambiguities should be resolved in favor of defendants, also counseled towards acquitting the president.

From Fox News

She also cited a principle known as the “rule of lenity” that favors a narrow reading of laws to ensure that there is fair warning about when conduct crosses the line into criminality.

From New York Times