In personam
in personam
An in personam claim is a legal action directed against a specific person to enforce a personal obligation, such as payment or performance.
The term "in personam" is a Latin expression in law denoting that a claim or judgment is directed against a particular person rather than against a thing or property. Such actions seek to establish and enforce the personal liability of that individual, for example in cases involving contractual obligations or tort.
The distinction from in rem claims is relevant in civil law, enforcement law and private international law. In practice, in personam is frequently applied in disputes where an individual is held liable, such as in debt collection or claims for damages, and the judgment binds only the parties involved.
“The plaintiff commenced in personam proceedings against the defendant to enforce the outstanding payment due under the contract.”
Need legal advice?
Schedule a free consultation with one of our specialists