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reprieve definition - legal

n

A temporary suspension of a criminal sentence (usually the death penalty) for a certain period of time, usually for the purpose of examining new information or permitting an appeal to take place. A reprieve cannot prevent the ultimate carrying out of the judgment. See also clemency, commutation, pardon, and executive clemency.

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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