Home > West's Encyclopedia of American Law > Forfeit

To lose to another person or to the state some privilege, right, or property due to the commission of an error, an offense, or a crime, a breach of contract, or a neglect of duty; to subject property to confiscation; or to become liable for the payment of a penalty, as the result of a particular act. To lose a franchise, estate, or other property, as provided by the applicable law, due to NEGLIGENCE, misfeasance, or omission.

This nonconsensual deprivation transfers the property to another person or restores it to the original grantor.