Principal Liability
/ˈprɪnsəpəl laɪəˈbɪləti/
Definitions
- (n.) Legal responsibility borne by a party who authorizes another to act on their behalf, making them directly liable for resulting obligations or damages.
In agency law, the principal liability arises when the agent enters into contracts within their authority.
- (n.) The primary responsibility of a defendant for a wrongful act, distinguished from secondary or vicarious liability.
The owner was held under principal liability for damages caused by their direct actions.
Related terms
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Commentary
Principal liability often appears in agency and tort contexts, emphasizing direct responsibility; it is distinct from vicarious liability, which is indirect.
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.