aggravating circumstance
nounLegal Definition of aggravating circumstance
: a circumstance relating to the commission of an act that increases the degree of liability or culpability punitive damages are recoverable in a conversion case when the evidence shows legal malice, willfulness, insult, or other aggravating circumstances —Schwertfeger v. Moorehouse, 569 So. 2d 322 (1990) also : a circumstance (as lack of remorse) relating to an offense or defendant that receives consideration by the court especially in imposing a death sentence — compare mitigating circumstance
Comments on aggravating circumstance
What made you want to look up aggravating circumstance? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Musical Words Quiz
-
- Which word describes a musical performance marked by the absence of instrumental accompaniment?
Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZ
Share aggravating circumstance
Resources for aggravating circumstance