Legal Definitions - carry

In legal contexts, the term carry has several distinct meanings, often referring to possession, transport, or the assumption of a burden or responsibility.

• To physically bear or support something. This refers to holding or sustaining the weight of an object.

  • Example 1: A construction worker might carry a heavy toolbox across a job site.

    Explanation: Here, "carry" means the worker is physically supporting and moving the toolbox from one location to another.

  • Example 2: A hiker might carry all their supplies, including food and water, in a backpack during a multi-day trek.

    Explanation: This illustrates the act of bearing the weight and burden of necessary items for a journey.

• To transport or convey something from one place to another. This meaning focuses on the movement of items, often over a distance.

  • Example 1: A freight company uses large trucks to carry consumer goods from manufacturing plants to distribution centers nationwide.

    Explanation: This demonstrates the act of moving products as cargo across significant distances.

  • Example 2: An airline might carry passengers and their luggage on international flights.

    Explanation: Here, "carry" refers to the airline's role in transporting people and their belongings as part of its service.

• To possess or transport a firearm, especially within a vehicle. This is a specific legal interpretation, particularly relevant in statutes concerning weapons.

  • Example 1: A person driving with a hunting rifle securely stored in a locked gun case in the trunk of their car would be considered to be carrying a firearm, even if it's not directly on their person.

    Explanation: This illustrates that "carry" in this context includes possessing a firearm within a vehicle, regardless of its exact placement, as long as it's accessible within the vehicle's confines.

  • Example 2: A statute might prohibit an individual from carrying a concealed weapon in their vehicle without a proper permit, even if the weapon is in a glove compartment.

    Explanation: This example clarifies that the act of having a firearm within a vehicle, even if not openly displayed or on one's person, falls under the legal definition of "carrying" it.

• To possess or maintain something intangible, such as insurance or a status. This is a figurative use of the term.

  • Example 1: Many employers require their employees to carry professional liability insurance as a condition of employment.

    Explanation: This means the employees must possess and maintain an active insurance policy.

  • Example 2: A student might be required to carry a minimum GPA to remain eligible for a scholarship.

    Explanation: In this context, "carry" means to maintain or hold a certain academic standing.

• In parliamentary procedure, to adopt or approve a motion or proposal. This refers to the successful passage of an item during a formal meeting or vote.

  • Example 1: After a lengthy debate, the city council voted, and the motion to approve the new zoning ordinance was carried by a majority.

    Explanation: This indicates that the motion was successfully adopted or passed by the council.

  • Example 2: During a shareholder meeting, a proposal to elect new board members will carry if it receives more than 50% of the votes.

    Explanation: This means the proposal will be adopted or approved if it meets the voting threshold.

• To provide financial support or credit for an extended period. This often applies in business or investment contexts, where one party finances another's obligations.

  • Example 1: A real estate developer might agree to carry a portion of the financing for a buyer's land purchase over several years, rather than requiring full payment upfront.

    Explanation: This means the developer is providing credit or a loan to the buyer for that portion of the purchase price.

  • Example 2: A supplier might carry a customer's outstanding balance for an additional 60 days, extending their payment terms.

    Explanation: This signifies the supplier is extending credit and allowing the customer more time to pay their debt.

• To absorb or bear the cost or burden of something, usually temporarily. This meaning relates to taking on financial responsibility without immediate recovery.

  • Example 1: A retail business might have to carry the cost of unsold seasonal inventory until the next year's sale, impacting its cash flow.

    Explanation: This means the business is absorbing the financial burden associated with holding the inventory for an extended period.

  • Example 2: During an economic downturn, a company might choose to carry its employees' salaries for a few months, even if revenue is low, to avoid layoffs.

    Explanation: Here, "carry" means the company is absorbing the financial expense of salaries despite reduced income, hoping for future recovery.