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unclean hands

Defined in 1 dictionary — Case Law

Definitions from Case Law

From 324 U.S. 806 - Precision Instrument Mfg Co v. Automotive Maintenance Machinery Co · 1945Most cited · 2,252 citing opinions

one's misconduct need not necessarily have been of such a nature as to be punishable as a crime or as to justify legal proceedings of any character. Any willful act concerning the cause of action which rightfully can be said to transgress equitable standards of conduct is sufficient cause for the invocation of the maxim by the chancellor