legal-terms
What does &quot;purported exercise of power&quot; mean?
<p>In the context of indemnification against claims of liability of an office bearer, what is the distinction between "exercise" and "purported exercise" of powers?</p>

<p>One definition of "purport":</p>

<blockquote>
  <p>To convey, imply, or profess; to have an appearance or effect.</p>
</blockquote>

<p>Here's the context I'm asking about:</p>

<blockquote>
  <p>for any act or omission respectively by them in good faith and in the
  exercise or purported exercise of powers or functions, or in the
  discharge or purported discharge of duties</p>
</blockquote>

<p>Clearly "exercise of powers" would include powers that are authorized or delegated. Does "purported exercise of powers" include powers that are believed to be authorized or delegated, but in fact are not? Or what does "purported" mean in this context?</p>

<p>It means exactly that:</p>

<blockquote>
  <p>powers that are believed to be authorized or delegated, but in fact are not</p>
</blockquote>

<p>Providing the belief is genuine and reasonable.</p>
