Rider Definition and Legal Meaning

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

What is Rider?

(n) A rider is an attachment made to a document which amends the original document or add additional provisions or information as a part of the original document. For example an amendment Act is a rider to the original ACT adding, deleting or altering the provisions contained in the original Act

History and Meaning of Rider

A rider is an attachment to a document, such as a contract, that modifies or adds to its original provisions. The use of riders allows parties to negotiate specific details of a contract without altering the underlying agreement. Riders can be added at the time of drafting or at a later date as amendments.

The term "rider" originated in the legislative process, where it refers to an additional provision attached to a bill that is not germane to the original subject matter. Over time, the term has been adopted by the legal profession to refer to any attachment or addendum to legal documents.

Examples of Rider

  1. An employment contract may include a rider specifying the terms of a bonus payment.
  2. A real estate purchase agreement may include a rider outlining contingencies for inspection and appraisal.
  3. A divorce settlement agreement may include a rider specifying the division of retirement assets.

Legal Terms Similar to Rider

  1. Amendment: A change or addition to a legal document.
  2. Addendum: An attachment to a legal document that provides additional information or clarifies existing provisions.
  3. Exhibit: A document or item attached to a legal document to support or provide evidence for its provisions.