Public Interest
/ˈpʌblɪk ˈɪntrɪst/
Definitions
- (n.) A legal principle referring to the welfare or well-being of the general public, often guiding government action and judicial decisions.
The court ruled that the regulation was justified in the public interest.
- (n.) An overriding societal concern that may limit private rights to protect collective good.
Restrictions on property use were imposed to serve the public interest.
Forms
- public interests
Related terms
See also
Commentary
The term is frequently invoked to justify regulations that serve broad societal benefits, though its scope can be context-dependent and sometimes contested in legal reasoning.
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.