Duress

Duress refers to the use of force, threats, or coercion to compel someone to act against their will or to induce them to engage in actions they would otherwise refuse. It signifies a situation where a person is under extreme pressure or intimidation, often in legal contexts where agreements or actions may be deemed invalid if made under duress.

Duress meaning with examples

• During the trial, the defendant claimed that his confession was obtained under duress, asserting that he was threatened by law enforcement if he did not comply. This raised concerns about the integrity of the legal process and the validity of his statements made during questioning.
• In her memoir, the author described how she signed the contract under duress, fearing for her safety amid aggressive tactics from the other party. This example highlights the lengths to which individuals may go to escape threatening situations, often sacrificing their better judgment.
• The victim testified that she was held captive and forced to comply with demands under duress, leading to a significant shift in how the court viewed the severity of the crimes committed against her. Such circumstances illustrate the psychological impact of coercion on individuals.
• Lawyers emphasized that a contract signed under duress is not legally binding, as mutual consent was violated. In civil disputes, establishing that one party acted under duress can lead to the annulment of agreements and restoration of fairness.
• The soldier revealed that orders given during combat were sometimes made under duress, with superiors leveraging threats. This commentary brought to light the moral complexities soldiers face, where obedience can clash with personal ethics and the well-being of others.