Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Term: CLERICUS MERCATI
Definition: A person who used to oversee public markets in the past. They were responsible for making sure that people were honest in their dealings, measuring land, and settling disputes. They would also witness oral contracts and check weights and measures. However, this job is no longer needed because there are now laws that regulate these things.
Definition: Clericus mercati (kler-uh-kuhs muhr-kay-ti). [Law Latin] See Clerk of the Market.
Explanation: Clericus mercati is a Latin term that refers to the Clerk of the Market. This was an official who oversaw public markets and was responsible for ensuring that oral contracts were witnessed, weights and measures were accurate, land was measured correctly, and disputes between traders were settled. However, this office has become obsolete due to various laws regulating weights and measures.
Example: In medieval times, the Clerk of the Market was an important figure in ensuring fair trade and commerce. They would witness agreements between buyers and sellers, and make sure that everyone was using the correct weights and measures. For example, if a farmer was selling a bushel of wheat, the Clerk of the Market would make sure that the bushel was the correct size and that the buyer was getting what they paid for.
Explanation: This example illustrates how the Clerk of the Market was responsible for ensuring that trade was fair and honest. By overseeing the use of weights and measures, they prevented traders from cheating their customers by giving them less than they paid for. The Clerk of the Market was an important part of medieval society, but their role has been replaced by modern laws and regulations.