Legal Definitions - sinecure

Term: sinecure

A sinecure refers to a position or office for which the holder receives a salary, benefits, or other compensation, but has very few or no actual duties, responsibilities, or work to perform.

Here are some examples to illustrate this concept:

• Example 1: After a long career, a company's CEO retired but was given the title of "Senior Corporate Advisor" with a generous annual salary and an office. However, they were rarely consulted, had no specific projects, and their advice was seldom sought or implemented by the new leadership.

  Explanation: This illustrates a sinecure because the former CEO receives significant compensation and maintains a prestigious title, but the role itself lacks any substantive duties or responsibilities, effectively requiring no work.

• Example 2: A local government created a new position called "Special Ambassador for Cultural Affairs," appointing a well-connected individual who had supported the current administration. The role involved attending various social events and ribbon-cutting ceremonies, but had no budget to manage, no staff to oversee, and no specific policy initiatives or projects to develop.

  Explanation: This is a sinecure because the individual holds an official title and likely receives a salary or stipend, yet the position is primarily ceremonial and devoid of any meaningful tasks, decision-making power, or accountability for specific outcomes.

• Example 3: A prestigious university established an "Emeritus Scholar" program, offering a small stipend and access to campus facilities for retired professors. While the title conferred honor, the scholars were not expected to teach, conduct research, publish, or participate in any administrative duties; their involvement was entirely voluntary and informal.

  Explanation: This exemplifies a sinecure as the retired professors receive a benefit (stipend, facilities) and an honorary title, but the position itself imposes no mandatory work, responsibilities, or performance expectations, allowing them to enjoy the prestige without the labor.