ultra vires

Definition

beyond the legal power or authority of a person or body

Etymology

Unadapted borrowing from Latin ultra vires (“beyond the power”).

Example Sentences

• "Acts of the Scottish Parliament, unlike Westminster, can be challenged in court on the basis that they relate to reserved matters and are, therefore, ultra vires."
• "Plaintiffs alleged that Defendants’ actions were ultra vires and violated the Tenth Amendment to the United States Constitution."