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Instant

Defined in 1 dictionary — Bouvier (1839)

A Law Dictionary, Adapted to the Constitution and Laws of the United States

John Bouvier · 1839

An indivisible space of time. Although it cannot be actually divided, yet by intendment of law, it may, and be applied to several purposes; for example, he who lays violent hands upon himself, commits no felony till he is dead, and when he is dead he is not in being so as to be termed a felon; but he is so adjudged in law, eo instante, at the very instant this fact is done. Vin. Instant, A, pl. 2; Plowd. 258; ae. Litt. 18; Show. 415.