Running At Large Definition and Legal Meaning

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

What is Running At Large?

(Adj) Running at large is used to represent existence of a person, animals etc everywhere which are potentially dangerous to the society and not controlled till then. The phrase is used to represent the openness of the uncontrolled danger. A killer is running at large means he is present there uncontrolled but controllable with effort.

History and Meaning of Running At Large

The term "running at large" originated in the United States in the 19th century in reference to livestock roaming freely and potentially causing harm to others. Over time, the term has been broadened to include any situation where a person, animal, or object is uncontrolled and poses a danger to society. The phrase is used to convey the sense of openness and unpredictability associated with uncontrolled danger.

In a legal context, "running at large" typically refers to animals that are not under proper control by their owners. Animals that are allowed to roam freely can cause property damage, pose a risk to public safety, and spread disease. Laws regulating the running at large of animals vary by state and local jurisdiction, but generally, owners are required to keep their animals on their own property or under control when off of it.

Examples of Running At Large

  1. The local government received numerous complaints about a pack of feral dogs running at large, attacking other dogs and even humans, causing concern for public safety.
  2. Her property was damaged by a neighbor's cows that were running at large on her land, and she was unable to find the owner to compensate her for the damage.
  3. The city passed a law requiring cats to be kept indoors or on a leash outdoors, to prevent them from running at large and contributing to the population of feral cats.

Legal Terms Similar to Running At Large

  1. Trespassing: entering someone else's property without permission.
  2. Nuisance: a situation that interferes with the enjoyment of one's property, such as excessive noise or unpleasant odors.
  3. Negligence: failure to exercise reasonable care and caution, resulting in harm to others.