Understanding Res Inter Alios Acta Alteri Nocere Non Debet in Law

Definition & Meaning

The phrase "res inter alios acta alteri nocere non debet" is a legal principle that translates to "a transaction between others does not harm a third party." This means that actions or agreements made between two parties should not negatively affect individuals who are not involved in those transactions. Essentially, it protects people from being harmed by agreements or actions they were not a part of.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: If two companies enter into a contract to supply goods to each other, a third company cannot claim damages if one of the original companies fails to deliver, as they were not a party to the contract.

Example 2: (hypothetical example) If a landlord and tenant agree on rental terms, a neighbor cannot challenge the lease based on personal grievances, as they are not part of the agreement.

State-by-state differences

State Application of Principle
California Strongly upholds the principle in contract disputes.
New York Recognizes the principle but allows for exceptions in certain tort cases.
Texas Generally applies the principle, especially in property disputes.

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
Res Judicata A legal doctrine preventing the same issue from being tried again. Focuses on finality of judgments, while res inter alios acta focuses on third-party protections.
Privity of Contract The relationship between parties in a contract. Privity relates to direct relationships, while res inter alios acta addresses indirect effects on third parties.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you find yourself affected by a transaction in which you were not a party, it is important to understand your rights. Consider consulting with a legal professional to discuss your situation. Additionally, you can explore US Legal Forms for templates that may help you address your concerns effectively.

Quick facts

  • Applies in contract, tort, and property law.
  • Protects third parties from indirect harm.
  • Relevant in various states with some differences in application.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It means that actions or agreements made between two parties do not harm those who are not involved.