Non-delegable describes a responsibility, task, or power that cannot be transferred or assigned to another person or entity. It signifies a duty that is inherently tied to a specific individual or role and cannot be discharged by proxy. The obligation remains with the original party, even if they are physically unable to perform the action. This often applies to matters requiring specific expertise, personal discretion, or legal constraints to protect accountability. The defining characteristic of a non-delegable duty is the preservation of personal or primary responsibility.
Non-delegable meaning with examples
- The CEO's ultimate responsibility for financial reporting is non-delegable. Even if the accounting department prepares the reports, the CEO remains accountable for their accuracy. This safeguards against potential fraud or misreporting. The CEO must ensure compliance and bear the legal consequences of any irregularities within the reports.
- A parent's duty to ensure the safety and well-being of a child is largely non-delegable. While they may hire a babysitter, they still retain the primary responsibility for oversight and decision-making concerning the child's welfare. This includes medical, educational, and protective responsibilities.
- The judge's duty to issue a fair verdict in a trial is a non-delegable power. Although the judge relies on information gathered by others, they cannot delegate the final judgment or the determination of guilt or innocence to a clerk or other staff member.
- The captain of a ship has a non-delegable responsibility for the safety of the vessel and all its crew. No matter how skilled the other officers are, the captain is ultimately accountable for all aspects of the ship's operations, particularly in navigating safely and taking decisions in dangerous conditions.
- A government's duty to protect its citizens from threats is non-delegable. Although the government establishes law enforcement agencies, the ultimate responsibility rests with the ruling administration and, within a democratic system, the elected officials.