In general, an error is a mistake or a misconception.
In legal contexts, an error is either a mistake of fact or a mistake of law. In general, a mistake of law will nullify or reverse a judgment in the case. On the other hand, the mistake of fact that a judge or jury relied on to reach a decision or verdict may or may not warrant reversal. A harmless error in court proceedings is one that does not, despite its occurring, affect or change the case's final result.
[Last updated in November of 2022 by the Wex Definitions Team]