Understanding Wearing Apparel: Legal Perspectives and Definitions
Definition & meaning
Wearing apparel refers to clothing and garments worn by individuals. This term encompasses a wide range of items, including everyday clothing, formal wear, and accessories. In legal contexts, wearing apparel can also pertain to the distribution of clothing after someone's death or as part of employee recognition programs.
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The term "wearing apparel" is used in various legal contexts, particularly in family law and estate law. It may arise in situations involving inheritance, where clothing and personal items of a deceased person are distributed among surviving family members. Additionally, wearing apparel can be part of employee recognition programs, where awards may include clothing items as a form of acknowledgment for outstanding performance.
Key Legal Elements
Real-World Examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
For instance, in Oklahoma, the law stipulates that upon a person's death, their wearing apparel must be delivered to the surviving spouse and children, and these items are not considered part of the estate's assets. Additionally, an employer may award distinctive wearing apparel to employees as part of a recognition program for exceptional job performance.
Relevant Laws & Statutes
In Oklahoma, two statutes reference wearing apparel:
58 Okl. St. § 311 - Discusses the distribution of a decedent's wearing apparel to surviving family members.
74 Okl. St. § 4121 - Allows for the use of wearing apparel as part of employee recognition awards.
Comparison with Related Terms
Term
Definition
Difference
Clothing
General term for garments worn on the body.
Wearing apparel is a broader term that includes clothing and accessories.
Personal Property
Movable items owned by an individual.
Wearing apparel is a specific category of personal property.
Common Misunderstandings
What to Do If This Term Applies to You
If you are dealing with the distribution of a deceased person's wearing apparel, it is important to understand your rights and responsibilities. You may want to consult with a legal professional to navigate the process effectively. Additionally, if you are involved in an employee recognition program, consider how wearing apparel can be used as a meaningful reward. For self-management of related legal documents, explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you handle these matters efficiently.
Quick Facts
Wearing apparel includes all types of clothing and accessories.
Legal implications vary by state, particularly in estate law.
Recognition programs may include wearing apparel as awards.
Key Takeaways
FAQs
Typically, it is distributed to surviving family members and is not counted as part of the estate's assets.
Yes, many organizations include distinctive wearing apparel as part of their employee recognition programs.
While the general definition remains consistent, specific legal implications can differ by state.