Legal Authority
/ˈliːɡəl ɔːˈθɒrɪti/
Definitions
- (n.) The recognized power or right to enforce laws, make decisions, or compel obedience within a legal framework.
The court's legal authority enables it to interpret constitutional matters.
- (n.) A source of law or precedent from which legal rules or obligations are derived and justified.
Statutes and case law provide the primary legal authority for judges' rulings.
Related terms
See also
Commentary
This term encompasses both the power to act lawfully and the sources that validate legal norms; distinguishing between authority as power and as source aids precise legal analysis.
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.