Define: Crown

In legal terms, the term “Crown” typically refers to the state or the government, particularly in jurisdictions that have a monarch as the head of state. The Crown represents the executive authority of the government and is responsible for exercising various powers and functions, including law enforcement, administration of justice, and regulation of public affairs. In constitutional monarchies such as the United Kingdom and Commonwealth realms, the Crown symbolises the sovereignty of the state and is vested with prerogative powers, which may be exercised by the monarch or by government officials on behalf of the monarch. The Crown also represents the interests of the state in legal proceedings, both civil and criminal, and is often named as a party in lawsuits involving government actions or interests. Additionally, the term “Crown” is used to refer to certain government institutions, agencies, or offices associated with the executive branch, such as the Crown Prosecution Service or the Crown Estate.

The term ‘the Crown’ is used in three slightly different ways in UK legal documentation; it can mean:

1. the person of the monarch, as a private individual, or
2. the office of the monarcy, or
3. the corporation of the Crown, which includes the ministers of the Government and their Departments, and the Civil Service.

Until the passage of the Crown Proceedings Act (1947), all three of these had privileged positions in law. Now, the Crown as a corporate body has the same kind of legal status as any other corporation (see: Corporation) and can be sued in the courts. In particular, the Crown is liable for tort (see: Tort) and breach of contract. In addition, the doctrine of vicarious liability now applies to the Crown (see: Vicarious liability). Action against the Crown is directed at the Government Department responsible, or at the Attorney-General (see: Attorney-general) if no Department can be identified. The Treasury publishes a list of solicitors that accept service of process for actions of this kind. The monarch, both as an office and a person, remains immune from prosecution.

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 29th March, 2024.