Legal Definitions - advocatus

Advocatus is a Latin term that historically referred to an individual who provided legal advice and assistance, acting as a representative or spokesperson for another person, particularly in legal proceedings or before judicial bodies. The term emphasizes the role of someone who "speaks on behalf of" or "champions the cause of" another.

Here are some examples illustrating the historical application of the term:

• Imagine a Roman merchant facing a dispute over a contract in a local court. This merchant might engage an advocatus to present their arguments, explain the relevant laws to the magistrate, and question witnesses, ensuring their legal position was clearly and persuasively communicated.

  This example demonstrates the advocatus acting as a legal representative and spokesperson in a judicial setting, assisting a client with their case.

• Consider a Roman family whose head has recently passed away, leaving behind a complex estate and multiple heirs. The family might appoint an advocatus to help them interpret the will, navigate the intricate legal requirements for inheritance, and represent their collective interests in discussions with other claimants or state officials responsible for estate administration.

  Here, the advocatus serves as a legal adviser and representative for a group, helping them understand and manage a legal process (inheritance) and advocating for their interests.

• In a historical context, if a small Roman community had a grievance against a larger neighboring city regarding access to shared resources, they might have designated a respected and knowledgeable advocatus to formally present their case. This individual would articulate the community's rights and concerns, and negotiate a resolution with the authorities of the larger city.

  This example shows the advocatus acting as a formal spokesperson and legal advocate for a community, representing their collective interests in a dispute and seeking a resolution.