Natural Person: A Comprehensive Guide to Legal Identity

Definition & Meaning

A natural person is an individual human being, as opposed to a legal entity such as a corporation. In legal contexts, a natural person has rights and responsibilities, and can enter into contracts, own property, and be held liable for actions. This distinction is important because it helps clarify who can be held accountable under the law.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: John, a natural person, signs a lease for an apartment. He is legally bound by the terms of the lease.

Example 2: (hypothetical example) Sarah, a natural person, files a lawsuit against a company for breach of contract.

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Notes
California Recognizes natural persons in all legal contexts, similar to federal law.
New York Natural persons have the same rights as in other states, with specific nuances in family law.
Texas Natural persons can sue for damages in civil cases, with some limitations in tort law.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Legal Person An entity, such as a corporation, that has legal rights. Legal persons are not human beings and have different rights and responsibilities.
Artificial Person A non-human entity created by law. Artificial persons do not have the same inherent rights as natural persons.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are a natural person involved in a legal matter, consider the following steps:

  • Identify your legal rights and responsibilities in the situation.
  • Consult legal resources or templates from US Legal Forms to help you navigate your case.
  • If the matter is complex, seek advice from a qualified attorney.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Definition An individual human being with legal rights.
Legal Rights Can enter contracts, own property, and sue or be sued.
Liability Can be held accountable for legal actions.

Key takeaways