Remedy Definition and Legal Meaning

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

What is Remedy?

(n) Remedy is the solution for any illegality occurred to a person by compensating such losses, damage, defects sufferings etc. Remedy can be granted by external involvements like intervention through court or authorities or attained by mutual agreements

History and Meaning of Remedy

Remedy has been a significant concept in law for centuries. It refers to the legal means of enforcing a right or correcting a wrong, typically through compensation or specific performance. The term "remedy" comes from the Latin word "remedium," which means "cure" or "treatment." In legal contexts, a remedy is often seen as a treatment for a legal wrong or injury, rather than a punishment for the wrongdoing itself.

In most legal systems, the availability of a remedy depends on the type of harm suffered, the identity of the party responsible for the harm, and the nature of the legal relationship between the parties. Some remedies are based on contract law, while others arise from tort law or criminal law. The specific remedy available may vary depending on the particular circumstances of the case.

Examples of Remedy

  1. If a consumer purchases a defective product, the remedy might include a refund or replacement of the product.
  2. If an employee is wrongfully terminated, the remedy might include reinstatement to their job or payment of lost wages.
  3. If a company engages in unfair competition practices, the remedy might include an injunction to prevent such practices in the future or payment of damages to a harmed competitor.

Legal Terms Similar to Remedy

  1. Damages: Money awarded to compensate for a harm suffered.
  2. Injunction: A court order requiring someone to do or refrain from doing something.
  3. Specific Performance: A remedy that requires a party to perform exactly as specified in a contract.