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Simple English definitions for legal terms
personal-capacity suit
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A quick definition of personal-capacity suit:
A personal-capacity suit is a type of legal action that is taken against an individual in their personal capacity, rather than in their official capacity as a representative of an organization or government. Personal chattel refers to personal property that is not real estate, such as furniture or clothing. A personal check is a written order to a bank to pay a specific amount of money to a person or organization. The personal-comfort doctrine is a principle that allows employees to take short breaks for personal needs, such as eating or using the restroom, without interrupting their employment.
A more thorough explanation:
A personal-capacity suit is a type of legal action taken against an individual in their personal capacity, rather than in their official capacity as a representative of an organization or government entity. This type of suit is typically brought when the individual's actions have caused harm or injury to another person.
If a police officer uses excessive force during an arrest, the victim may file a personal-capacity suit against the officer for their individual actions, rather than against the police department as a whole.
This example illustrates how a personal-capacity suit is used to hold an individual accountable for their own actions, rather than allowing them to hide behind the protection of their organization or employer.