Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam (PACE) Practice Exam

Who qualifies as an invitee in legal terms?

1. An employee of a business

2. Anyone who enters a property open to the public

3. A contractor performing work

4. A legal representative

The correct answer is: Anyone who enters a property open to the public

The classification of an invitee in legal terms is primarily based on the nature of the property and the purpose for which individuals enter that property. An invitee is generally understood to be anyone who enters a property that is open to the public, often with the expectation of receiving some benefit from the visit or due to the invitation extended by the property owner, either explicitly or implicitly. This classification places a higher duty of care on the property owner or occupier to maintain safe conditions for individuals who enter. Individuals categorized as invitees typically include customers in a store, guests at a public event, or anyone accessing areas that are made available to the general public, which includes businesses that welcome patrons. Distinguishing invitees from other categories such as licensees or trespassers is crucial for liability purposes, as invitees warrant the highest level of care from the property owner. In contrast, employees of a business, contractors performing work, and legal representatives may have different legal standings based on their purpose for being on the property and their relationship to the property owner or occupier. For example, employees may be considered invitees while actively engaged in their job duties, but they can also fall into different legal categories depending on the context. Therefore, the definition of an