What type of liability do partners in an ordinary partnership have?

In an ordinary partnership, partners are jointly and severally liable for the debts of the business. This means that each partner can be held responsible for the entire amount of the partnership's debts, not just their portion. If the partnership cannot pay its debts, creditors can pursue any partner for the full amount owed. This structure emphasizes the shared responsibility among partners and the lack of protection from business liabilities, which can lead to significant personal financial risk.

This liability differs greatly from limited partnerships, where some partners can limit their liability to the extent of their investment. In a standard partnership, however, all partners share equal responsibility, which is essential for understanding the risks involved in such business arrangements. This characteristic enhances the importance of trust and collaboration among partners, as each individual’s financial health can be significantly impacted by the actions of the others in the partnership.