defect legal definition

An error or flaw in a process or product, affecting performance and potentially causing harm; a shortcoming in a legal document that may lead to its invalidity, or in a pleading that may lead to its dismissal.

A flaw or error that should have been noticed by a reasonably observant individual. Also known as a patent defect.

An error or flaw introduced, or not detected, during the design of the process or product.

Pertaining to a contract or a pleading, an error or flaw of such gravity that it may invalidate the document in question.

An error or flaw in a product, introduced during the manufacturing rather than the design phase.

The failure either to inform users of the appropriate way to use a product so as to avoid harm, or to disclose an error or flaw in a product that may cause harm to a user.