Benevolence
/bəˈnɛvələns/
Definitions
- (n.) The disposition to do good, often influencing legal duties such as in trusts or fiduciary responsibilities.
The trustee acted with benevolence in managing the trust assets.
- (n.) An act of kindness or goodwill impacting legal interpretations of charitable donations or humane treatment.
The judge acknowledged the defendant’s benevolence in mitigating the sentence.
Related terms
See also
Commentary
In legal contexts, benevolence often appears in reference to fiduciary duties and equitable principles, where a party's good will may affect their legal obligations or the interpretation of their conduct.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.