Dictionary

on behalf of (someone)

representing the interests of a person, group or principal etc This letter is written on behalf of my client.

Phrase Bank

  • This was a case filed on behalf of thousands of employment applicants.
  • The claim is brought on behalf of a client.
  • The former Solicitor General will argue on behalf of Hastings.
  • No counsel has entered an appearance on behalf of the defendants.
  • She will focus on litigation on behalf of consumers.
  • Stephen Colbert testifies on behalf of illegal immigrant farm workers.
  • A full personal statement was issued on behalf of the foreign secretary.

Additional Notes

  • This phrase can usually be replaced by the word for: I spoke for my client.
  • To speak on behalf of someone can also mean to praise or defend that person: The popular former president spoke on behalf of the candidate.