Voluntary Compliance
/ˌvɑːlənˈtɛri kəmˈplaɪəns/
Definitions
- (n.) The act by which a party adheres to legal regulations or requirements without coercion or enforcement.
The company achieved voluntary compliance with environmental laws before any penalties were imposed.
- (n.) A regulatory or administrative practice encouraging entities to follow rules proactively to avoid litigation or penalties.
Voluntary compliance programs often help agencies reduce enforcement costs.
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Voluntary compliance is preferred in regulatory contexts to reduce litigation and foster cooperative governance; drafting clear incentives can enhance its effectiveness.
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.