adjective

kangaroo

Disregarding proper legal procedure, especially in a court.

The accused faces a kangaroo court with no fair chance to defend himself.

Etymology

gaNurruGuugu Yimidhirrlarge black kangaroo

The legal adjective comes from the expression “kangaroo court,” used for an irregular or sham tribunal. The animal name’s role in creating that expression is uncertain; explanations about jumping over legal procedure remain conjectural.

More examples

They denounced the kangaroo proceedings.
The hearing resembled a kangaroo court.
She refused to recognize the kangaroo tribunal.

Forms

kangaroo

Similar words

sham: Emphasizes a false appearance of legitimate proceedings.
unfair: A broader term without the fixed courtroom association.