That which is first or principal; as primary evidence, or that evidence which is to be admitted in the first instance, as distinguished from secondary evidence, which is allowed only when primary evidence cannot be had. 2. A primary obligation is one which is the principal object of the contract; for example, the primary obligation of the seller is to deliver the thing sold, and to transfer the title to it. It is distinguished from the accessory or secondary obligation to pay damages for not doing so.
Law Dictionary – Alternative Legal Definition
First; principal; chief; leading. Primary allegation. The opening pleading in a suit in the ecclesiastical court. It is also called a “primary plea.” Primary disposal of the soil In acts of congress admitting territories as states, and providing that no laws shall be passed interfering with the primary disposal of the soil, this means the disposal of it by the United States government when it parts with its title to private persons or corporations acquiring the right to a patent or deed in accordance with law. Primary powers. The principal authority given by a principal to his agent. It differs from “mediate powers.” As to primary “Conveyance,” “Election,” “Evidence,” and “Obligation” see those titles.