Define: Absolute Duty

Absolute Duty
Absolute Duty
Quick Summary of Absolute Duty

An absolute duty refers to a responsibility that must be fulfiled without any exceptions or excuses. It is an obligation that cannot be evaded or disregarded, and must be executed regardless of the prevailing circumstances. For instance, a doctor possesses an absolute duty to offer medical care to a patient in need, irrespective of their ability to afford the treatment. The term “absolute duty” is commonly used in legal and ethical contexts to denote a duty that is regarded as of utmost significance and cannot be compromised.

Full Definition Of Absolute Duty

An absolute duty refers to an obligation or responsibility that must be fulfiled without any exceptions or excuses. For instance, a doctor is obligated to provide medical care to their patients to the best of their ability, regardless of any personal feelings or biases they may possess. Likewise, a parent has an absolute duty to meet the basic needs of their child, including food, shelter, and clothing. These instances exemplify the concept of absolute duty as they highlight that certain obligations cannot be disregarded or evaded, even if fulfiling them may be inconvenient or challenging.

Absolute Duty FAQ'S

An absolute duty refers to a legal obligation that must be fulfilled without any exceptions or excuses. It is a duty that cannot be avoided or waived under any circumstances.

No, an absolute duty cannot be modified or waived. It is a non-negotiable obligation that must be fulfilled as required by law.

Examples of absolute duties include paying taxes, obeying traffic laws, fulfilling contractual obligations, and providing child support.

Failing to fulfill an absolute duty can result in legal consequences such as fines, penalties, imprisonment, or civil liability. The severity of the consequences may vary depending on the specific duty and jurisdiction.

In most cases, ignorance of an absolute duty is not a valid defence. The law generally expects individuals to be aware of their legal obligations and fulfill them accordingly.

In certain situations, an absolute duty can be delegated to another person or entity through a legal agreement or delegation of responsibility. However, the ultimate responsibility for fulfilling the duty still lies with the person who initially had the obligation.

While absolute duties are generally non-negotiable, there may be limited exceptions or defences available in certain circumstances. These exceptions are usually determined by specific laws or legal principles.

In some cases, individuals may challenge the existence or scope of an absolute duty in court. However, successfully challenging an absolute duty can be difficult, as courts generally uphold the importance of fulfilling legal obligations.

In general, absolute duties are imposed prospectively, meaning they apply to actions or obligations that arise after the duty is established. Retroactive imposition of an absolute duty is rare and usually requires specific legal provisions.

In certain circumstances, a court may modify or suspend an absolute duty through a court order. This typically occurs when there are compelling reasons or extenuating circumstances that warrant a deviation from the usual obligations. However, such modifications are usually exceptional and require strong justifications.

Related Phrases
Duty
Disclaimer

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.

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