respondeat superior

Definition

The doctrine holding employers liable for employees' actions performed within the scope of employment, Latin for 'let the master answer.' The legal principle that picks the defendant with the deepest pockets.

Example Usage

Under respondeat superior, the hospital was liable for the nurse's negligence during surgery.

Origin

Latin phrase meaning 'let the superior answer,' rooted in Roman law master-servant relationships

Fun Fact

This doctrine doesn't apply to independent contractors, spawning endless litigation over who's really an employee—looking at you, gig economy.

Source: Tort and employment law terminology

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treason

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per curiam

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judgement

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malice

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