Important Legal Definitions
Explore legal terms, clear definitions and practical examples.
Equity Looks to the Intent Rather Than the Form
Principles of Natural Justice & Equity
Definition
An equitable principle enabling courts to examine the real substance, intention, and economic reality of a transaction rather than being bound by its formal nomenclature or technical phrasing.
Example
Where a document is titled a "Leave and License Agreement," but the terms grant exclusive possession, long-term tenure, and unrestricted physical control of a shop, the civil court looks to the true intent to declare the transaction a tenancy under state rent control laws.