Dying Declaration Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term Dying Declaration.

Dying Declaration (noun)

A "Dying Declaration" is a statement made by a person who believes they are going to die soon due to a severe injury or illness. This statement usually includes information about who caused their injury or the situation that led to it. Even though this type of declaration is technically hearsay (information received from other people that cannot be adequately substantiated), it is generally accepted in court. The belief is that someone who knows they are close to death is not likely to lie.