Illegitimate Authority
/ɪˌlɛdʒɪˈtɪmət əˈθɔːrɪti/
Definitions
- (n.) Authority exercised without lawful right or validity under established laws or rules.
The court declared the agency's orders as illegitimate authority lacking statutory basis.
- (n.) Power claimed or exercised in contravention of constitutional or legal provisions, often leading to disputes on jurisdiction or validity.
The regime was widely viewed as possessing illegitimate authority due to its seizure of power by force.
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Use carefully to distinguish between mere lack of legitimacy and unlawful exercise of power; often requires factual and legal analysis to establish illegitimacy distinct from mere unpopularity.
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.