Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Antiquum Dominicum: This is a fancy Latin term that means "ancient demesne." Demesne is a legal term that refers to land that someone owns and controls. It can be land that is attached to a manor or just land that someone owns outright. Ancient demesne specifically refers to land that was owned by the Crown (the king or queen) a long time ago, back when William the Conqueror was in charge. It's important to know about ancient demesne because it can affect how land is owned and used today.
Definition: Ancient demesne. See demesne.
Definition: Land held in one's own right, especially land attached to a manor and reserved for the court's own use.
Example: The king owned a manor that was recorded in the Domesday Book. This manor was called ancient demesne.
Explanation: Ancient demesne refers to a manor that was held by the Crown at the time of William the Conqueror and was recorded in the Domesday Book. It was reserved for the court's own use and was considered a part of the king's domain or realm.
Example: A person who owns a piece of land has complete ownership of it. This is called demesne as of fee.
Explanation: Demesne as of fee refers to complete ownership of something. It is different from ancient demesne, which is land held by the Crown. When a person owns a piece of land, they have complete ownership of it and can do whatever they want with it.