respondent superior

Latin, meaning, “the master shall answer.” It is the doctrine that holds an employer liable for acts committed by employees while on the job. Respondeat superior is “vicarious liability,” and requires the plaintiff to prove that the employee was in the course and scope of employment when the incident happened to hold the employer liable.  The rationale behind respondeat superior is to hold the parties liable who profit from the activities of their subordinates. Respondeat superior also spreads risk throughout the economy while compensating injured parties. See also Frolic & Detour.