Legal Definitions - de futuro

de futuro is a Latin term meaning "regarding the future" or "at a future time." In legal contexts, it historically referred to actions, promises, or conditions that were set to occur at some point in the future, rather than immediately or in the present. This distinction was often crucial in determining the binding nature or enforceability of an agreement, as a promise made de futuro might not have been considered as immediately binding as one made de praesenti (in the present).

• Example 1: A Conditional Business Agreement

  A large technology company agrees to acquire a smaller startup, but the final acquisition and transfer of shares are made contingent on the startup successfully securing a patent for its core technology, which is expected to be granted in the next six months. This agreement to acquire is made de futuro.

  Explanation: The actual purchase and change of ownership are not happening now but are explicitly tied to a future event (the patent grant) and will occur at a later date, illustrating the "regarding the future" aspect of de futuro.

• Example 2: A Future Legislative Act

  A national parliament passes a new environmental protection law that mandates stricter emissions standards for all manufacturing plants, but the law is designed to come into full effect two years from the date of its passage to give industries time to upgrade their facilities. The enforcement of these new standards is de futuro.

  Explanation: While the decision to enact the law is made in the present, its practical implementation and legal force are deferred to a future date, making its operative effect "at a future time."

• Example 3: A Promise of Future Employment

  During a recruitment process, a university tells a prospective professor, "We will offer you a tenured position once the new academic building is completed and our department expands, which we anticipate will be in approximately 18 months." This statement constitutes a promise de futuro.

  Explanation: The offer of employment is not immediate but is explicitly tied to a future event (building completion and department expansion) and a future timeframe, demonstrating that the commitment is "regarding the future."