Legal Definitions - deliver

In legal contexts, to deliver means to formally or intentionally transfer possession, control, or custody of an item, funds, or information to another party.

Here are some examples illustrating the concept of delivery:

• Example 1: Legal Documents

  A process server hands a court summons directly to a person named in a lawsuit. By doing so, the process server has delivered the summons.

  Explanation: This illustrates the formal transfer of a legal document, ensuring the recipient receives official notice of a legal action. The act of physically handing over the document constitutes delivery.

• Example 2: Goods or Property

  After purchasing a new car, the dealership prepares the vehicle and provides the keys and title documents to the buyer. The dealership has then delivered the car to its new owner.

  Explanation: This demonstrates the transfer of physical possession and legal ownership (via the title) of an item from one party to another. The buyer now has control over the vehicle.

• Example 3: Financial Instruments or Information

  An individual sends a signed check to their landlord for rent payment. Once the check is placed in the mail or handed directly to the landlord, it has been delivered.

  Explanation: This shows the intentional transfer of a financial instrument (the check) that represents funds. Even though the money itself isn't physically handed over, the instrument that authorizes its transfer has been delivered to the intended recipient.