Which term describes the legal principle that allows laws or contracts to be divided into independent obligations?

Severability refers to the legal principle that permits a law or contract to be divided into distinct components, ensuring that if one part is found to be unconstitutional or unenforceable, the remaining provisions can still be upheld. This principle is essential in maintaining the functionality of laws and contracts, allowing for parts to operate independently, thus protecting the intent of the overall document even if specific sections are invalidated.

For instance, in legislative contexts, if a state law contains multiple provisions, and one is ruled unconstitutional by the courts, severability ensures that the rest of the law can continue to function as intended. This principle also promotes stability within the legal framework, preventing a whole law or agreement from being automatically voided due to a singular defect. Understanding severability is crucial in both legislative processes and contract law, as it underscores the importance of maintaining effective legal structures despite potential challenges to individual components.