Legal Definitions - Anno Regni

Anno Regni

Anno Regni is a Latin phrase that translates to "in the year of the reign." It is often abbreviated as A.R. This term was historically used in legal and official documents, particularly in monarchical systems, to date statutes, laws, or other formal instruments. Instead of using a standard calendar year (like A.D. or C.E.), documents were dated by counting the years a sovereign had been on the throne. This provided a precise and official way to identify when a particular law or event occurred during a monarch's rule.

• Example 1: Identifying a Historical Statute
  Imagine a significant law passed in England during the reign of King Edward III. Instead of being referred to simply as "the law of 1351," it might be officially cited in legal texts as "25 Edw. III Stat. 5," indicating it was enacted in the 25th year of Edward III's reign, and was the fifth statute passed in that year. This use of Anno Regni precisely dates the law within the context of the monarch's time on the throne.
• Example 2: Dating a Royal Proclamation
  In a modern Commonwealth realm, a royal proclamation might still be officially dated using this method, especially for ceremonial or constitutional purposes. For instance, if King Charles III issues a proclamation in the second year of his reign, it could be formally referenced as "Anno Regni Caroli III secundo." This demonstrates how the term continues to be relevant for official acts tied directly to the sovereign's authority.
• Example 3: Referencing a Legal Precedent in a Historical Case
  A legal historian or scholar researching an old court case might come across a reference to a specific legal principle established in "Anno Regni Henrici IV decimo tertio." This means the principle was set forth in the 13th year of King Henry IV's reign. The use of Anno Regni helps the researcher pinpoint the exact period and context of the legal development, which might be crucial for understanding its application and evolution.