Legal Definitions - proprio vigore

Proprio vigore is a Latin legal term that translates to "by its own strength" or "of its own force."

When something operates proprio vigore, it means it is effective, valid, or enforceable without needing any additional action, external approval, or further legal steps to give it power. Its authority or effect comes inherently from itself.

Here are some examples to illustrate this concept:

• Example 1: A Self-Executing Contract

  Imagine two businesses sign a detailed contract for the sale of goods. The contract specifies all terms, prices, and delivery schedules. Once both parties have properly executed (signed) the agreement, it becomes legally binding immediately. There is no requirement for a court to approve it, or a government agency to register it, for it to be valid and enforceable between the parties.

  Explanation: The contract operates proprio vigore because its legal force and binding nature arise directly from the agreement and signatures of the parties themselves, without needing any external validation to become effective.

• Example 2: A Law with a Specific Effective Date

  A legislature passes a new environmental protection law that states it "shall take effect on July 1st of the current year." On July 1st, without any further proclamation from the governor or a separate administrative order, the law automatically becomes active and enforceable. All citizens and businesses are then subject to its provisions.

  Explanation: The law's power to become active and binding on the specified date comes proprio vigore from its own legislative text and the act of its passage, rather than requiring a subsequent official declaration.

• Example 3: A Court Order for Immediate Action

  A judge issues a temporary restraining order (TRO) against an individual, commanding them to immediately cease contact with another person. Once the order is properly served to the individual, they are legally obligated to comply at once. The order doesn't require a separate enforcement hearing or a police officer to physically compel compliance for it to be valid and in effect.

  Explanation: The temporary restraining order carries its legal authority and demands immediate compliance proprio vigore, deriving its strength directly from the court's judicial power upon issuance and proper notification.