YourDictionary

Dictionary Home » Legal Definitions » conscientious objector

conscientious objector legal definition

noun

A person who, due to religious belief, refuses to participate as a combatant in any war. By law, such an individual is exempt from serving as a combatant, but may be required to perform an alternative form of service to the country in a civilian or non-combatant military role.
selective conscientious objector
A person who does not object to all wars, but only to those he considers unjust. Such an individual is not exempt from service as a combatant.

Learn more about conscientious objector

link/cite print suggestion box