Delegation

In one sentence

Handing off your contract duties to someone else to perform.

Plain English

Delegation means you ask someone else to do the work or fulfill the obligations you promised to do under a contract. Unlike assigning rights, delegating duties usually requires the other party's permission because they have a stake in who actually performs the work. You remain responsible if the person you delegate to doesn't do the job properly—delegation doesn't let you off the hook. Some contracts forbid delegation entirely, especially when personal skill or trust matters.

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Example

A painting contractor promises to paint a house but delegates the actual work to a subcontractor. The original contractor is still liable if the subcontractor does poor work, and the homeowner can sue either one.

Used in a sentence

“The contract prohibited delegation of the specialized engineering work without written approval from the client.”

Related terms

Assignment

Transferring your contract rights to someone else.

Third-Party Beneficiary

Someone who benefits from a contract even though they didn't sign it.

Enforceability

The legal ability to compel someone to follow through on a contract's terms in court.

Material Fact

A fact that significantly affects a party's rights, obligations, or decision-making in a contract.

Remedy

A legal action or payment a court awards to fix a harm or enforce a right after a breach.

Affirmation

A party's decision to keep a contract or agreement even after discovering a reason to cancel it.

Offer

A proposal to enter into a binding agreement on specific terms.

Acceptance

Agreeing to the exact terms of an offer, creating a binding contract.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.