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commutation definition - legal

n

In criminal law, the presidentÂ’s or governorÂ’s substitution of a less severe punishment for a greater one that was imposed by a court in a criminal action. See also amnesty, pardon, and reprieve.

Webster's New World Law Dictionary Copyright © 2006 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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