In a way that conforms to or is permitted or recognized by the law.
‘he was deemed to have acted lawfully and was not prosecuted’
‘the recording had been lawfully obtained’
‘The group will strengthen monitoring functions to ensure its companies are conducting all their operations lawfully.’
‘The men claim they were not obliged to comply with requests that had not been lawfully issued following a board meeting.’
‘The bailiff in this case was acting lawfully.’
‘Before military action can lawfully be undertaken against Iraq, the security council must have indicated its clearly expressed assent.’
‘Do you, William, take Elizabeth to be your lawfully wedded wife?’
‘The judge's edict that all copies be returned or destroyed has annoyed many, especially since they were lawfully obtained.’
‘In this case, the outcome of the appeal does not depend upon whether the employers were or were not entitled lawfully to terminate the contract without notice.’
‘The job cuts were done fairly and lawfully, based on legitimate business reasons.’
‘Everyone has got the right to protest but it has to be done peacefully and lawfully.’
‘They can demand the owner prove it was acquired lawfully.’
Are You Learning English? Here Are Our Top English Tips