Legal Definitions - vires

Definition: Vires (vI-reez) refers to natural or granted powers, especially when limited. It can be further categorized into two types:

1. Natural powers or forces: These are the inherent abilities or capabilities possessed by an individual or entity. For example, the strength of a person, the speed of a car, or the gravitational force of the earth are all examples of natural powers.
2. Granted powers: These are the powers that are given or authorized to an individual or entity by a higher authority, such as a government or a court. However, these powers may be limited or restricted in some way. For example, a police officer has the power to arrest someone, but only if they have probable cause to do so.

Examples:

• Ultra Vires: This refers to actions that are beyond the legal authority or powers of an individual or entity. For example, if a company's bylaws state that it can only invest in certain types of businesses, but it invests in a completely unrelated business, it would be considered ultra vires.
• Intra Vires: This refers to actions that are within the legal authority or powers of an individual or entity. For example, if a police officer arrests someone with probable cause, it would be considered intra vires.

The examples illustrate the concept of vires by showing how an individual or entity can have powers that are either natural or granted, and how those powers can be limited or restricted in some way. Ultra vires and intra vires are legal terms that are used to determine whether an action is within or beyond the legal authority of an individual or entity.