Direct Liability
/ˈdaɪˌrɛkt laɪˈbɪlɪti/
Definitions
- (n.) Legal responsibility imposed on a party for their own acts or omissions causing harm or damage, without the need to prove fault of another.
The company faces direct liability for the environmental damage caused by its operations.
- (n.) Obligation to answer directly for a breach or wrongful act resulting in a legal claim.
The director was held under direct liability for fraud committed during the transaction.
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Direct liability contrasts with vicarious liability, which arises from another's actions; drafting should clarify the source of liability to avoid ambiguity.
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.