Mala Fides Definition: Latin: bad faith. Related Terms: Bad Faith, Malice Also spelled mala fide (without the "s"). Something done in bad faith. For example, someone who buys goods knowing that they are stolen does so mala fides. Often used interchangeably with malice, especially in defamation cases, although the two terms ought to be distinguished. Presented as the oppiste of bona fide (good faith). French: mauvaise foi. REFERENCES: R v Arnold (1992) 2 SCR 208 R v Kelly (1992) 2 SCR 170 Categories & Topics: Contract Law Dictionary Dictionary of Latin Law Terms Tort and Personal Injury Law Dictionary Find you are constantly looking up definitions? Try our search provider (works in most modern browsers) If you find an error or omission in Duhaime's Legal Dictionary, or if you have legal term suggestion, we'd love to hear from you!