term:

Initiative

initiative n

1 : the esp. introductory series of steps taken to cause a desired result [the deposing party would ordinarily be required to take the in arranging a deposition "Andrews v. Bradshaw, 895 P.2d 973 (1995)"]
2 a : the right to initiate legislative action
b : a procedure enabling a specified number of voters by petition to propose a law and secure its submission to the electorate or to the legislature for approval see also referendum

on one's own initiative
: at one's own discretion
: independently of outside influence, suggestion, or control [the court may reduce a sentence on its own initiative "Ghrist v. People, 897 P.2d 809 (1995)"]

Source: Merriam-Webster's Dictionary of Law ©1996. Merriam-Webster, Incorporated. Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.