Extenuation

That which renders a crime or tort less heinous than it would be without it. It is opposed to "aggravation." EXTERRITORIALITY (Fr.) This term (exterritorialite) is used by French jurists to signify the immunity of certain persons, who, although in the state, are not amenable to its laws. Foreign sovereigns, ambassadors, ministers plenipotentiary, and ministers from a foreign power are of this class. Foelix, Droit Int. Prive, liv. 2 tit. 2, c. 2, § 4. See "Ambassador;" "Conflict of Laws;" "Minister;" "Privilege." EXTERUS (Lat.) A foreigner or alien; one born abroad. The opposite of civis. Bac. Works, IV. 345.

That which renders a crime or tort less heinous than it would be without it. It is opposed to aggravation. In general, extenuating circumstances go in mitigation of punishment in criminal cases, or of damages in those of a civil nature.

See Aggravation.