Public Function Doctrine

/ˈpʌblɪk ˈfʌŋkʃən dawˈtrɪn/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal principle establishing that certain powers and activities of the state are devoted to the public interest and cannot be appropriated for private use.
    The court relied on the public function doctrine to determine the government's responsibility in the case.

Forms

  • public function doctrine

Commentary

This doctrine is pivotal in delineating when private entities performing traditionally governmental roles are subject to constitutional constraints.

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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