Final answer:
The EMT's legal duty to act is a professional obligation requiring them to provide emergency medical care to those in need, based on their training and responsibilities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The EMT's legal duty to act refers to the obligation that Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) have to provide care in certain situations. According to the principles outlined by the philosopher W.D. Ross, there are various moral commitments like the duty of fidelity, the duty of reparation, and importantly, the duty of non-maleficence which dictates not harming others. This duty can extend into a legal or professional obligation for EMTs, compelling them to assist those in need of emergency medical care.
For EMTs, this duty is paramount when on duty or contracted to work, as they must respond to emergencies and provide medical care within the scope of their training and capabilities. Situations like serving as a juror or serving in the Armed Forces can also involve legal duties, but the EMT's duty is specific to their role in providing immediate medical assistance. The duty to act can sometimes conflict with other commitments; however, in cases of emergency, the EMT must exercise judgment and prioritize their professional duty to aid those in medical distress over other promises.