What does the legal doctrine of Sovereign Immunity protect states from?

The legal doctrine of Sovereign Immunity is a principle that protects states and their agencies from being sued by citizens or other entities without their consent. This legal protection stems from the concept that the state cannot commit a legal wrong and is, therefore, immune from civil suits or criminal prosecution. In essence, it acknowledges the sovereign status of the state, ensuring that it is not amenable to lawsuits by individuals unless the state waives its immunity or consents to be sued in specific instances.

This doctrine primarily serves to uphold the dignity and continuity of government operations by limiting the potential for lawsuits that could disrupt state functions. While there are exceptions where states may be held liable, such as when they participate in certain activities or when federal law permits, the general rule remains that states enjoy this immunity from lawsuits initiated by their citizens. Understanding this legal framework is crucial for professionals in the field of psychology and law, as it governs the interactions between individuals and state entities.