Delegation
Delegation: Giving authority or a duty to another person or body. In contract law, a party can often delegate performance of its duties to someone else. For sales of goods, UCC § 2-210 says delegating does not relieve the original party of its duty to perform or its liability for breach. In constitutional law, the nondelegation doctrine limits how much legislative power Congress may hand to agencies.
What delegation means
In practice, you will see delegation in pleadings, motions, orders and court rules. The definition above explains the general meaning. Even so, the meaning can shift with context. Therefore, always read it alongside the rule or document where it appears.
Where delegation comes up
The term is used across many kinds of cases. For example, you may see it in pleadings, motions and court orders. To see it in context, browse the motions and procedures library or the Learn the Law topics.
How to research the term
First, read the term where it actually appears. A rule, statute or court decision may define it for its own purposes. Next, check whether your court has a local rule that uses delegation in a special way. Then look at recent decisions from courts in your jurisdiction. They show how judges apply the term today. Also, remember that state law can differ from federal law. For that reason, use our state procedures guide to find your state’s rules. Finally, confirm every source is current before you rely on it.
You can read the current federal court rules online for free.
Related legal terms
- Default: a party's failure to plead or otherwise defend within the time allowed, which the clerk records as an entry of default.
- Default judgment: a judgment entered against a party who failed to plead or otherwise defend.
- Defendant: the person or entity a lawsuit is brought against.
- Deficiency judgment: a judgment for the amount still owed after a foreclosure sale brings less than the debt, where state law allows one.
Why precise terms matter
Legal words often look like everyday words, but they can carry a precise meaning. Because of that, a small misreading can change how you understand a deadline, a duty or a right. Our glossary keeps each definition short and links it to the procedures where it matters.
Sources
Sources last reviewed: 2026-10-24
Lawtopolis provides legal information and education, not legal advice. Using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws and court rules vary by jurisdiction and change over time; verify every authority against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction about your situation.