What is misfeasance?

Misfeasance refers to the improper performance of a legal act that one is permitted to undertake. This concept suggests that while an individual may have the right to perform a certain action, they do so ineffectively, carelessly, or inappropriately, leading to harm or injury to another party.

For instance, in the context of athletic training, a trainer who improperly administers a treatment to an athlete while operating within their legal scope could be considered to have committed misfeasance if that improper action results in further injury or harm. The key aspect is that the action was legal, but the execution was flawed or negligent.

The other choices refer to different legal terms that do not align with the definition of misfeasance. Failure to execute a legal duty pertains to nonfeasance, where someone does not perform a duty they are obligated to perform. Unauthorized execution refers to actions taken outside one’s scope of authority, which is a distinct concept from acting improperly within a sanctioned task. Inaction in a critical situation can also pertain to nonfeasance, emphasizing the failure to act when action is warranted. Therefore, the definition ascribed to misfeasance aligns perfectly with the scenario described, making it the accurate choice