Legal Definitions - de bono gestu

de bono gestu is a Latin legal phrase that translates to "for good behavior." It refers to a condition or requirement that an individual must maintain acceptable conduct to retain a privilege, position, or status.

Here are some examples illustrating how this term applies:

• Example 1: Judicial Appointments

  In some legal systems, judges are appointed to their positions de bono gestu. This means they hold their office as long as they maintain good conduct, adhere to ethical standards, and competently perform their duties. If a judge engages in serious misconduct, such as corruption or abuse of power, they could be removed from office because they have failed to uphold the condition of good behavior.

• Example 2: Parole or Probation Conditions

  When an individual is released from prison on parole or placed on probation, their freedom is often conditional upon their de bono gestu. They must abide by specific rules, such as reporting to a parole officer, avoiding certain individuals, and refraining from committing new crimes. If they violate these conditions or exhibit poor behavior, their parole or probation can be revoked, and they may be sent back to prison.

• Example 3: Professional Licenses

  A professional, such as a doctor or lawyer, holds a license to practice their profession. This license is implicitly held de bono gestu. They are expected to adhere to professional codes of conduct, ethical guidelines, and legal standards. If a professional engages in malpractice, fraud, or other serious misconduct, their licensing board can revoke their license, as they have failed to maintain the required good behavior for their profession.