Legal Definitions - due

Due is a legal term with two primary meanings:

• 1. An Obligation That Is Owed or Payable: This refers to something that is required to be paid, delivered, or fulfilled. It can indicate that the obligation is immediately enforceable, was supposed to be met in the past and is now outstanding, or will become active at a future date.
• Example 1 (Immediately Enforceable): "The quarterly property taxes are due by the end of the month, meaning homeowners must submit their payment before that deadline to avoid penalties."
• Explanation: This illustrates 'due' as an immediate and enforceable obligation that must be fulfilled by a specific date.
• Example 2 (Past and Outstanding): "The invoice for the consulting services was due two weeks ago, and the client has yet to make the payment."
• Explanation: Here, 'due' refers to an obligation that was required in the past and remains unpaid or unfulfilled.
• Example 3 (Future Obligation): "The final payment for the construction project is due upon the successful completion and inspection of the building next quarter."
• Explanation: This shows 'due' indicating an obligation that will become active and payable at a specific future point or condition.
• 2. Just, Proper, or Reasonable: In this context, 'due' describes an appropriate standard or level of care, process, or notice that should be exercised or provided in a given situation.
• Example 1 (Due Care/Diligence): "Before investing in the startup, the venture capital firm conducted extensive due diligence, thoroughly reviewing the company's business plan, market analysis, and intellectual property."
• Explanation: This demonstrates 'due' in the sense of proper and reasonable investigation or care taken to make an informed decision and mitigate risks.
• Example 2 (Due Process/Notice): "The university ensured the student received due process during the disciplinary hearing, providing ample opportunity to present their side of the story and appeal the decision."
• Explanation: Here, 'due' signifies that the procedures followed were fair, appropriate, and in accordance with established rules and legal principles.