Hold harmless
Hold harmless: A contract clause in which one party agrees not to hold the other responsible for certain losses or claims. It is often paired with an indemnity promise to pay for those losses. How far a hold-harmless clause reaches depends on its wording and on state law.
What hold harmless means
In practice, you will see hold harmless 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 hold harmless 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
To research hold harmless, begin with the rule, statute or contract where the word is used. Each one can give it a slightly different meaning. Then compare that text with how courts in your area have applied it. Also check the local rules of your court, since they can add requirements. If your case is in state court, the state rules control. So start with our state procedures guide to find them. In the end, always confirm that the source you rely on is current.
You can read the current federal court rules online for free.
Related legal terms
- Harmless error: a mistake in the trial court that did not affect a party's substantial rights, so it is not a reason to reverse. Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 61 directs courts to disregard all errors and defects that do not affect any party's substantial rights.
- Hearing: a proceeding before a judge or other judicial officer to consider a motion, a request or another matter.
- Hearsay: under Federal Rule of Evidence 801(c), a statement the declarant does not make while testifying at the current trial or hearing, offered to prove the truth of the matter asserted. Many exceptions and exclusions exist.
- Heir: a person who inherits property under the state's intestacy law when someone dies without a valid will.
Why precise terms matter
Courts read legal terms closely. As a result, knowing the exact meaning of a word helps you follow orders, rules and filings. Each glossary entry on Lawtopolis is short on purpose and links to the pages where the term is used.
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.