Principal Claim
/ˈprɪnsəpəl kleɪm/
Definitions
- (n.) The primary legal claim or cause of action on which a plaintiff bases a lawsuit, asserting the main right violated and seeking remedy.
The court focused on the plaintiff's principal claim to determine liability.
- (n.) In patent law, the main claim in a patent application that defines the essential features of the invention.
The principal claim in the patent application outlined the core innovation.
Forms
- principal claims
Related terms
See also
Commentary
In drafting, distinguish the principal claim from secondary or dependent claims to clarify the core issue or invention focus.
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.