INSTAN

1 definition found

From Bouvier's Law Dictionary, Revised 6th Ed (1856) [bouvier]:

  INSTANT. An indivisible space of time.
       2. Although it cannot be actually divided, yet by intendment of law, 
  it may 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. Ab. Instant, A, pl. 


  2; Plowd. 258; Co. Litt. 18; Show. 415.