Legal Definitions - take care of

take care of

"Take care of" is a versatile phrase used to describe the act of assuming responsibility for, managing, or resolving a particular person, obligation, or issue. It encompasses several distinct but related meanings depending on the context.

• Meaning 1: To support or look after a person.

  Example: After a severe accident, a court appointed a guardian to take care of the minor child's daily needs and ensure their well-being until they reached adulthood.

  Explanation: In this scenario, "take care of" signifies the guardian's legal and practical responsibility to provide support, protection, and oversight for the child, covering their physical, emotional, and financial needs.

• Meaning 2: To pay a debt or fulfill a financial obligation.

  Example: Before closing the sale of their property, the homeowners had to take care of the remaining balance on their mortgage and any outstanding property taxes.

  Explanation: Here, the phrase refers to the act of settling or paying off financial liabilities, such as a mortgage or taxes, to ensure all obligations are met before a transaction is finalized.

• Meaning 3: To attend to or resolve a specific matter or task.

  Example: The paralegal was instructed to take care of filing all the necessary paperwork for the new client's incorporation by the end of the week.

  Explanation: In this context, "take care of" means to manage, process, or complete a particular task or administrative matter, ensuring it is properly addressed and concluded.