Special Pleading Definition

noun
Responsive pleading from a defendant that does not deny the factual allegations of the other party but argues that the defense is entitled to prevail, as in the justification of a killing being prosecuted as murder.
American Heritage
A pleading which is more than a mere denial of the charges or allegations, as one introducing new matter justifying an otherwise culpable act.
Webster's New World
An argument or presentation that leaves out what is unfavorable and develops only what is favorable to the case.
Webster's New World

Other Word Forms of Special Pleading

Noun

Singular:
special pleading
Plural:
special pleadings

Special Pleading Sentence Examples

  • No amount of special pleading can deny the reality of this.

  • He assisted in the reforms of special pleading at Westminster, and had a recognized place with Brougham and Lyndhurst in legal discussions in the House of Lords.

  • The author embarks on special pleading in favour of Earl Robert and Bishop Roger of Salisbury, but shows a certain liking for the personal character of Stephen, whose case he states with studious fairness.

  • The ardri desired to make the colony an Irish state tributary to the high-king; but on the special pleading of St Columba it was allowed to remain independent.

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Words Starting With

SSPSPE

Words Ending With

GNGING

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special pleading

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