term:

Recourse

recourse n

1 a : the act of turning to someone or something for assistance esp. in obtaining redress
b : a means to a desired end esp. in the nature of a remedy or justice
;also
: the end itself
2 : the right or ability to demand payment or compensation
;specif
: the right to demand payment from the endorser or drawer of a negotiable instrument see also recourse note at note compare non-recourse NOTE: Under Article 3 of the Uniform Commercial Code, the phrase without recourse on a negotiable instrument limits the liability of the endorser or drawer. If an endorsement states that it is made without recourse, the endorser is not liable to pay, subject to various conditions, if the instrument is dishonored. Similarly, if a draft states that it is drawn without recourse, the drawer is not liable to pay, subject to various conditions, if the draft is dishonored, provided that it is not a check.

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