Legal Definitions - imperfect duty

Definition: An obligation recognized by law but not enforceable against the person who owes it. It is a duty that is not fit for enforcement but should be left to the discretion and conscience of the person whose duty it is.

Example: A person has an imperfect duty to help a stranger in need. While it is recognized that helping others is a moral obligation, the law cannot force someone to do so.

This example illustrates how an imperfect duty is a recognized obligation but cannot be enforced by law. It is up to the individual's conscience to decide whether or not to fulfill this duty.