What is the legal nature of a corporation after formation?

A corporation, once formed, is recognized as a legal entity that is separate from its shareholders. This distinct legal status allows the corporation to own property, enter into contracts, sue and be sued in its own name, and have liabilities independent from its shareholders. This concept of separate legal personality is foundational to corporate law and is crucial for protecting shareholders from personal liability for the debts and obligations of the corporation, except in cases of fraud or wrongful conduct (often referred to as "piercing the corporate veil").

While a corporation consists of shareholders, it is important to acknowledge that it operates independently of them. The rights and responsibilities of the corporation accrue to the corporation itself, not to the individual shareholders. This separation facilitates various business transactions and provides continuity that benefits all stakeholders involved, even if the ownership structure changes over time.

The other options illustrate misconceptions about the nature of a corporation. A corporation is not merely a grouping of shareholders nor does it function exclusively with the consent of its promoters, who are typically involved in the initial formation but do not control its operations after establishment. Additionally, while the corporation is responsible for its own debts, it does not have immunity from liability; rather, it is shielded from the personal liabilities of its shareholders unless specific circumstances arise.