Pari Delicto Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Pari Delicto, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Pari Delicto?

It is a Latin word meaning ” at equal faults”. It is a doctrine which states that when both the parties involved in the lawsuit are guilty, none can claim anything from the other till it is proved that the contract was invalid or that ones guilt was much superior to the other.In such cases, the court does not relief either for the breach of contracts.

History and Meaning of Pari Delicto

Pari delicto is a Latin phrase that means "in equal fault." It is a legal doctrine that is rooted in the principle of fairness, and is applied in situations where both parties are equally at fault. This doctrine is often applied in contract law cases, and is designed to prevent a wrongdoer from profiting from their wrongdoing.

In order for pari delicto to apply, it must be proven that both parties were equally responsible for the wrongdoing. If one party was more at fault than the other, the doctrine does not apply. Additionally, if the contract in question is found to be invalid, then pari delicto does not apply.

Examples of Pari Delicto

Here are a few examples of how the term "pari delicto" might be used in different contexts:

  • A company enters into a contract with a supplier to obtain raw materials. It is later discovered that the supplier is using child labor to produce the materials. Both parties are deemed to be at fault, as the company was aware of the possibility of child labor and the supplier was actively engaging in it. The doctrine of pari delicto applies, and neither party can claim damages from the other.
  • Two individuals enter into a business partnership, but their business dealings are later found to be illegal. Both parties are equally at fault, and the doctrine of pari delicto applies.
  • A landlord rents a property to a tenant, but it is later discovered that the tenant is using the property for illegal activities. Both parties are considered to be at fault, and neither can claim damages from the other.

Legal Terms Similar to Pari Delicto

Here are a few legal terms that are similar in meaning to pari delicto:

  • Clean hands doctrine: This doctrine states that a plaintiff must be free from wrongdoing in order to claim damages from the defendant.
  • In pari delicto rule: This is a rule of law that is similar to pari delicto, and is often used in cases involving illegal contracts.
  • Contributory negligence: This is a legal doctrine that is often used in personal injury cases, and states that if a plaintiff is partially responsible for their own injury, then they cannot claim full damages from the defendant.