Mutual Aid

/ˈmjuːtʃuəl eɪd/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A voluntary agreement between parties or states to provide assistance to each other in times of need, often formalized in contracts or treaties.
    The mutual aid agreement between the two municipalities ensured shared emergency resources during disasters.
  2. (n.) Legal doctrine or practice whereby individuals or entities support each other cooperatively, often in labor or community contexts, without expectation of profit.
    Mutual aid societies historically provided social and legal support to their members.

Forms

  • mutual aid

Commentary

In legal drafting, distinguish formal mutual aid agreements, which create binding obligations, from informal mutual aid practices rooted in community or labor law contexts.

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.

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