immunity

Immunity refers to legal protection that exempts a person from liability , punishment, or legal action that would otherwise apply. Immunity can be granted in various contexts, including criminal and civil cases, administrative proceedings , and legislative inquiries. For example, see " immunity from prosecution "

The concept of immunity has its roots in the common law , but it has been codified in various statutes and legal codes . For example, the U.S. Constitution's Supremacy Clause grants immunity to federal officials performing their official duties.

See also presidential immunity and Trump v. U.S.

See also: Diplomatic immunity ; Qualified Immunity ; Sovereign immunity

[Last reviewed in July of 2024 by the Wex Definitions Team ]

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