Legal Definitions - a provisione viri

a provisione viri

This Latin legal phrase translates to "by the provision of a man" or, more specifically in historical legal contexts, "by the provision of a husband." It refers to legal arrangements, typically concerning property, financial support, or inheritance, that were established or dictated solely by a husband for the benefit of his wife or family. This concept underscores a historical period when a husband held significant, often unilateral, authority over family assets and their distribution, particularly regarding his wife's future financial security.

• Example 1: A Husband's Will

  Imagine a wealthy landowner in the 19th century who drafts his will. In it, he explicitly states that a specific country estate and a regular income from his business profits are to be set aside for his wife's exclusive use and benefit for the remainder of her life, should she outlive him. This entire arrangement, from the choice of assets to the terms of their distribution, is made a provisione viri, meaning it is entirely by his decision and provision as the husband.

• Example 2: Establishing a Jointure

  Consider a noble family in 17th-century England. Upon marriage, the husband, as part of the marriage settlement, formally designates a particular manor house and its associated lands as a "jointure" for his wife. This means that if she becomes a widow, she will have the right to live in and draw income from this property, rather than relying solely on a dower. This specific financial and property arrangement for his wife's future security was established a provisione viri, solely through the husband's act of provision.

• Example 3: A Trust for Future Support

  In a historical scenario, a husband, concerned about his wife's financial well-being, establishes a trust during his lifetime. He funds this trust with a substantial sum, stipulating that the income generated from it will be paid to his wife annually, both during their marriage and especially after his death. The creation and terms of this trust, designed to provide for her, are entirely a provisione viri, reflecting his unilateral decision to make this provision for her support.