unilateral right
Definition
A unilateral right is a power that one party holds completely on their own, meaning they can exercise it without needing permission, agreement, or cooperation from the other party. Think of it as a one-sided privilege written into a contract that lets you make a decision or take an action entirely by yourself.
Example
If your lease gives you a unilateral right to renew for another year, you can simply notify your landlord that you are staying and the renewal happens automatically, regardless of whether the landlord wants you to stay or not.
Watch Out
When you sign a contract, check carefully whether unilateral rights run in your favor, in the other party's favor, or both, because a unilateral right held only by the other side can leave you with very little control over your own situation.
See which terms appear in your contract?
This definition is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney for legal guidance.