Define: Personal Right

A personal right, also known as a personal right of action or a personal right of redress, refers to a legal entitlement or claim that an individual has against another person or entity based on a violation of their personal interests or rights. Unlike real rights, which relate to property or assets, personal rights are intangible and relate to aspects of an individual’s personhood, such as their physical integrity, privacy, reputation, or freedom from harm. Personal rights encompass a wide range of legal protections, including the right to bodily integrity, the right to privacy, the right to freedom of speech, and the right to be free from discrimination. When a personal right is infringed upon, the affected individual may have the right to seek legal remedies, such as damages, injunctions, or other forms of relief, to address the harm or injury suffered. Personal rights are an essential component of civil law systems and are protected by various laws, regulations, and legal principles aimed at safeguarding individuals’ dignity, autonomy, and well-being.

A ‘personal right’ to property is distinguishable from a Property right strictly defined, in that a personal right does not have the characteristics of durability or transmissibility. Thus a personal right may be of short duration, or enforceable only against one person, or vested in only one person. A licence may be considered a form of personal right (see: Licence) over land.

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.