Legal Definitions - in re propria

In re propria (Latin)

Historically, in re propria referred to actions or matters undertaken by an individual concerning their own personal affairs or interests, rather than on behalf of another person or entity. It emphasizes a direct, personal involvement in one's own business or concerns.

• Example 1: Personal Financial Management

  A retired individual decides to manage their personal investment portfolio themselves, choosing which stocks and bonds to buy and sell, without consulting a financial advisor or delegating the task to a third party. This decision-making process is an act in re propria because it directly involves their own assets and financial future.

• Example 2: Self-Representation in Minor Legal Matters

  A person who believes they were wrongly issued a parking ticket chooses to appear in traffic court and argue their case before a judge, rather than hiring a lawyer. By representing themselves, they are acting in re propria, handling their own legal matter directly.

• Example 3: Personal Property Decisions

  A homeowner decides to renovate their kitchen, selecting all the materials, hiring contractors, and overseeing the project themselves, using their own funds. This entire process is undertaken in re propria because it pertains exclusively to their personal property and their own choices for its improvement.