Constitutional

Compelling Interest

/ kom-PEL-ing IN-ter-est /

Definition

A sufficiently strong government interest to justify restricting rights.

Used in Context

“Strict scrutiny requires a compelling interest to justify the law.”

Etymology

◈ Latin: compellere, to drive together

Learn a new legal term every day

Lex gives you one legal term daily with flashcards, quizzes, and essays — completely free.