The term "in force" refers to a state or condition in which a specific law, rule, regulation, or agreement is legally valid and binding. When an agreement or law is described as being "in force," it means that it is currently in effect and actively being enforced.
The phrase is commonly used in legal and legislative contexts, as well as in various other fields such as trade, finance, and international relations. For instance, a statute or act enacted by a legislative body is said to be "in force" if it has been officially adopted and is applicable within a specific jurisdiction. Similarly, a treaty or an accord between countries is said to be "in force" if it has been ratified by the involved nations and is legally binding.
The term "in force" emphasizes the authoritative nature of the law or agreement, as it denotes its legal potency and applicability. It suggests that any non-adherence or violation of the law may result in consequences, such as penalties, fines, or legal actions. Conversely, when a law or agreement is no longer considered "in force," it means that it has expired, been repealed, or has been replaced by a new legislation or agreement.
Overall, "in force" signifies the current validity and legal effectiveness of a law, rule, regulation, or agreement, reinforcing its binding nature and signaling its enforceability within a specific context or jurisdiction.
