Devolve Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term Devolve.

Devolve (verb)

1. The automatic transition or transfer of rights, property, or responsibilities from one individual or entity to another, typically due to an event like death or resignation. This does not require any action from the previous or current holder. For example, when a person dies, their property may "devolve" to their legal heir.

2. The delegation or transfer of power or authority from a central government to a local government, allowing it to self-govern. For instance, a country 'devolving' certain rights to a territory within its jurisdiction.