Legal Definitions - thereunder

Thereunder is a legal adverb that means "under that" or "under those." It is used to refer back to a previously mentioned document, rule, condition, or authority, indicating that an action, obligation, or right falls within its scope or is governed by it.

Here are some examples to illustrate its use:

• Example 1 (Contractual Obligation):

  A construction contract specified that the contractor was responsible for obtaining all necessary permits before commencing work. Any delays or penalties incurred thereunder would be the contractor's sole responsibility.

  Explanation: This means that any delays or penalties that arise "under" or "as a result of" the contractor's responsibility to obtain permits, as stated in the contract, would be borne by the contractor.

• Example 2 (Regulatory Compliance):

  The new federal regulation mandates specific safety protocols for manufacturing facilities. Companies operating thereunder must submit quarterly compliance reports to the oversight agency.

  Explanation: Here, "thereunder" refers to the new federal regulation. Companies operating "under" or "in accordance with" this regulation are required to submit reports.

• Example 3 (Legal Authority):

  The court issued a protective order limiting the disclosure of sensitive information during the discovery phase of the lawsuit. All parties involved were strictly prohibited from sharing any documents or testimony obtained thereunder with unauthorized individuals.

  Explanation: In this context, "thereunder" refers to the protective order. It means that any documents or testimony acquired "under the authority of" or "as a result of" that protective order must be handled according to its restrictions.