In a legal context, the term signifies the act of nullifying, voiding, or overturning something previously established, such as a decision, order, or indictment. For instance, an appellate court might employ this action to invalidate a lower court’s ruling if procedural errors or misinterpretations of the law are discovered.
The significance of this action lies in its ability to rectify injustices and ensure adherence to legal principles. Historically, the power to overturn judgments has been a critical component of judicial review, safeguarding against potential abuses of authority and maintaining the integrity of the legal system. The availability of this corrective mechanism serves as a fundamental protection for individuals and entities subject to legal proceedings.