What does the term "sovereign immunity" mean?

Sovereign immunity is a legal doctrine that protects governments and their subdivisions from being sued in civil court without their consent. This principle asserts that the government, as a sovereign entity, cannot be held liable for its actions and does not have to face lawsuits unless it explicitly allows itself to be sued.

This concept is rooted in the idea that allowing lawsuits against the government could impede its functions and undermine its authority. Therefore, the government retains the power to decide when and how it can be sued, often through statutes that waive this immunity in specific circumstances.

Understanding sovereign immunity is crucial in constitutional law, as it sets limits on the ability of individuals to seek legal redress against the state, emphasizing the balance between holding government accountable and maintaining its functional integrity.