Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
bill of attainder
noun
bɪl əv əˈteɪndər
Definition
A legislative act that singles out and punishes an individual or group without a trial.
Examples
- The government attempted to enact a bill of attainder against alleged criminals, but it was blocked by the courts.
- Under the Constitution, Congress cannot pass a bill of attainder, ensuring that no one is punished without a fair trial.
Meaning
A bill of attainder is a law passed by a legislature that declares a person or group guilty of a crime and imposes punishment without the benefit of a judicial trial. This type of bill is prohibited in the United States Constitution and is seen as a violation of the principle of due process.
Synonyms
- None (as it is a specific legal term)
