Legal Definitions - ad perpetuam rei memoriam

Ad perpetuam rei memoriam is a Latin phrase meaning "for a perpetual record of the matter." In legal and official contexts, this term refers to the act or intention of creating a permanent, enduring record of an event, fact, or legal instrument. The purpose is to ensure that the information is preserved indefinitely, remaining accessible and verifiable for future reference, thereby preventing its loss, alteration, or dispute over time.

Here are some examples illustrating this concept:

• Governmental Records: Imagine a city council votes to designate a historic building as a protected landmark. The official minutes of that meeting, along with the signed ordinance and supporting documents, are meticulously archived in the city clerk's office and often digitized for public access. This action serves ad perpetuam rei memoriam, creating a permanent record of the building's protected status that cannot be easily challenged or forgotten, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

• Property Deeds: When a person buys a house, the transfer of ownership is formalized through a property deed. This deed is then recorded in the county's land records office. This recording is done ad perpetuam rei memoriam, establishing a permanent and publicly accessible legal record of who owns the property, its boundaries, and any associated rights or restrictions. This ensures a clear chain of title and prevents future disputes over ownership.

• Judicial Decisions: After a significant court case, the judge issues a written judgment or order detailing the court's findings, reasoning, and the final decision. These judgments are then filed with the court and become part of the public record. This process is an example of ad perpetuam rei memoriam, as it creates an official, unalterable record of the legal outcome, which can be referenced in future legal proceedings, appeals, or for historical and legal research.