Legal Capacity
/ˈliːɡəl kəˈpæsɪti/
Definitions
- (n.) The legal ability of an individual or entity to enter into binding contracts and to sue or be sued.
Minors often lack full legal capacity to enter into contracts.
- (n.) The mental ability required to understand and engage in legal acts, including making decisions and managing affairs.
Mental incapacity can affect a person's legal capacity to execute a valid will.
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Legal capacity varies by jurisdiction and context, often distinguished from competence, which is determined by courts; drafting should clarify the scope and threshold of capacity in agreements.
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.