In legal terminology, what does 'may' signify?

In legal terminology, the term 'may' is typically used to indicate that an action is discretionary, rather than mandatory. When a statute or regulation states that a person may take a certain action, it means that the individual has the option to do so, but is not legally obligated to do it. This discretionary power allows for personal judgment and decision-making in various circumstances.

For instance, if a law states that an officer may issue a citation, it implies that the officer has the authority to decide whether or not to issue the citation based on the specific situation at hand. This flexibility is important in legal contexts, as it acknowledges that not every scenario fits a rigid framework requiring uniform action. The use of ‘may’ contrasts sharply with terms like ‘shall’ or ‘must,’ which impose an obligation to act.

Thus, understanding the implications of the term 'may' is crucial for interpreting laws and regulations, as it directly shapes the discretion afforded to individuals and officials within the legal system.