Person entitled to enforce
Person entitled to enforce (legal definition): Under UCC § 3-301, the holder of an instrument, a nonholder in possession with the rights of a holder, or a person entitled to enforce a lost or similar instrument.

What person entitled to enforce means
In short, person entitled to enforce definition is a term you will meet in court papers, rules and legal research. The definition above gives its usual meaning in American civil practice. However, the exact meaning can depend on the rule, statute or court decision that uses it. So it helps to read the term in context.
Where person entitled to enforce definition 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 person entitled to enforce definition 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
- Holder: under UCC § 1-201(b)(21)(A), the person in possession of a negotiable instrument payable to bearer or to that identified person.
- Notice of appeal: the document that starts an appeal.
- Order: a written direction or ruling by the court.
- Personal jurisdiction: a court's authority over a particular defendant.
- Persuasive authority: law or commentary a court may consider but is not required to follow.
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: 2026-10-23
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.
