Legal Definitions - interspousal immunity

Definition:Interspousal immunity is a legal doctrine that provides immunity to one spouse from being sued by the other spouse for personal injury. This means that a husband or wife cannot be held liable for harm caused to their spouse.

Example: If a husband accidentally injures his wife while they are playing a sport together, the wife cannot sue the husband for damages because of interspousal immunity.

Explanation: Interspousal immunity is based on the idea that married couples should be able to maintain a harmonious relationship without the fear of being sued by their spouse. However, this doctrine has been abolished in many states because it can prevent victims of domestic violence from seeking legal recourse against their abusive spouse.