Qualified Immunity
A legal doctrine that protects government officials from liability unless they violate clearly established rights.
What is Qualified Immunity?
Qualified Immunity is a legal doctrine that protects government officials from civil liability for actions performed within their official duties, unless they violate clearly established statutory or constitutional rights of others.
Why It Matters?
It balances accountability with protection for public officials, preventing frivolous lawsuits while allowing redress for genuine rights violations.
Example
A police officer is shielded by qualified immunity when sued for an on-duty action that did not clearly violate established law.
Related Terms
Mediation
Litigation