ultra vires

[ uhl-truh vahy-reez ]

adverb

, Law.

1. beyond the legal power or authority of a corporation, corporate officer, etc. ( intra vires ).

ultra vires

/ ˈvaɪriːz /

adverb

1. predicative law beyond the legal power or authority of a person, corporation, agent, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of ultra vires¹

First recorded in 1785–95; Latin: literally, beyond strength

Word History and Origins

Origin of ultra vires¹

Latin, literally: beyond strength

Example Sentences

More broadly, Kempf said, the bills would pose risks to schools and educators in the form of potential ultra vires claims, which enable citizens to sue public officials who violate state laws.

From Salon

"Then-Attorney General Sessions correctly concluded that this ultra vires program should be rescinded. These cases could—and should—have ended with a determination that his legal conclusion was correct," Thomas said.

From Fox News

Having been burned so badly for her participation in post-9/11 interrogations, she is likely to be on her guard against future orders to act ultra vires.

From Wall Street Journal

The testimony was actually about “ultra vires,” a legal term that means “beyond the powers.”

From Washington Post

To conciliate the Protestants Charles V. had suspended the execution of this sentence, a proceeding which Henry declared was ultra vires.

From Project Gutenberg