Legal Definitions - substantive right

A substantive right is a legal or moral entitlement that a person has to something, such as property, liberty, or a legal claim. It is a right that can be enforced through legal action if it is violated.

Examples of substantive rights include:

• The right to free speech
• The right to own property
• The right to a fair trial
• The right to be free from discrimination

These examples illustrate substantive rights because they are legally recognized entitlements that individuals have and can enforce through legal action if they are violated. For example, if someone's right to free speech is violated, they can take legal action to protect that right.