A statement or representation that is false, untrue, or inaccurate when it should be true. In a legal context, this refers to a misrepresentation of fact within a contract, pleading, or official document.
Imagine something is said or written, but the truth isn't correct; it's wrong or misleading. For example, if someone says 'The sky is blue,' but the actual color is green, then the statement is untrue because it doesn't match reality.
It matters because an untrue statement can form the basis for legal claims, defenses, or remedies. If a party's representation is proven untrue, it can lead to a breach of contract claim, a tort claim, or a successful challenge against a false assertion made in litigation.
Visual model
A claim in a complaint that is untrue regarding the actual facts of the case.
A representation made by the defendant that is proven to be false during a cross-examination.
Document context
A statement or representation that is false, untrue, or inaccurate in a legal context. This term applies when a factual assertion made within a legal document (like a contract or complaint) fails to reflect the actual reality or established truth.
It matters because an untrue statement can form the basis for legal claims, defenses, or remedies. If a party's representation is proven untrue, it can lead to a breach of contract claim, a tort claim, or a successful challenge against a false assertion made in litigation.
When a factual assertion within a pleading, affidavit, or contractual clause is demonstrably incorrect or misstated compared to the actual reality or established truth. It appears when an obligation or representation fails to meet its stated condition.
In legal documents such as pleadings, affidavits, discovery responses, or contractual clauses where a factual claim is made but that claim is ultimately proven to be false or inaccurate under judicial scrutiny.
The parties involved in the litigation process, including plaintiffs, defendants, and regulatory bodies, are affected because their claims or defenses depend on the accuracy of the representations made by other parties.
It works by demonstrating that a representation made by one party (e.g., a contractual term) is factually incorrect when compared against the actual reality or established truth, thereby justifying a legal challenge or remedy.
Related terms
Share
Copy the link, open native sharing, or scan the QR code from another device.
Scan to open this glossary page on another device.
Wikipedia
Open Wikipedia for broader background on untrue.
Open on WikipediaKnowledge graph
This layer links the term to nearby glossary entries, document use cases, and contract-risk guides so readers can move from definition to context without dead ends.
Move from term to document
Disclaimer: We do not provide legal advice. We translate legal language into plain English and help you prepare for a conversation with a lawyer.
