Bear
/ˈbɛər/
Definitions
- (v.) To carry, support, or endure a legal obligation or burden.
The defendant must bear the costs of the lawsuit.
- (v.) To give birth to or produce (used in legal contexts regarding estates or inheritances).
She bore a legitimate heir to inherit the estate.
- (v.) To tolerate or endure, especially in the context of enduring damages or injuries.
The plaintiff bore significant emotional distress as a result of the defendant's actions.
Commentary
The verb 'bear' is common in legal drafting to express the carrying or assuming of responsibilities, costs, or burdens. Context determines its precise meaning.