Legal Definitions - inter se

Inter se is a Latin phrase meaning "between or among themselves." In legal contexts, it describes rights, duties, or agreements that exist exclusively among a specific group of people or between particular individuals. It emphasizes that certain obligations or understandings are internal to a defined relationship or group, distinguishing them from broader legal duties owed to the public or to other entities.

Essentially, when something is agreed upon or applies inter se, it means it only affects the parties directly involved in that specific arrangement, and not anyone outside of that defined group or relationship.

• Example 1: A Partnership Agreement

  Imagine three individuals decide to start a consulting business together. They draft a detailed partnership agreement that outlines how profits will be shared, who is responsible for which aspects of the business, and the process for making major decisions. These terms are considered inter se.

  How it illustrates the term: The rules and obligations established in this partnership agreement apply only to the three partners themselves. Clients who hire the consulting firm, suppliers who provide services to the firm, or landlords who rent office space to them are not bound by these internal profit-sharing arrangements or decision-making protocols. The agreement defines the rights and duties that exist exclusively "between or among themselves" – the partners.

• Example 2: Homeowners' Association (HOA) Bylaws

  In a planned residential community, all property owners are typically members of a Homeowners' Association (HOA). The HOA has bylaws and covenants that dictate rules for property maintenance, architectural standards, and the use of common areas. These rules are inter se to the members of the HOA.

  How it illustrates the term: The specific requirements for house paint colors, landscaping, or parking restrictions outlined in the HOA bylaws create obligations and rights solely for the homeowners within that community. A visitor to the community, a delivery driver, or a person living in an adjacent neighborhood is not bound by these internal HOA rules, as they only apply "between or among themselves" – the property owners who are members of the association.

• Example 3: Confidentiality Clause in a Business Contract

  Two companies enter into a contract for a joint venture. A specific clause in their agreement states that both parties must keep all details of their collaboration, including financial terms and proprietary information, strictly confidential. This confidentiality obligation is inter se.

  How it illustrates the term: The duty to maintain confidentiality is owed exclusively by Company A to Company B, and vice versa. It does not extend to other businesses, the general public, or government entities (unless legally compelled). The agreement creates a private obligation "between or among themselves" – the two contracting companies – regarding the secrecy of their shared information.