Legal Definitions - do, lego

do, lego

In historical Roman law, this Latin phrase translates to "I give and bequeath." It was a formal declaration used within a will to legally transfer specific property, assets, or rights from the deceased person (the testator) to another individual or entity upon their death.

• Example 1: Bequeathing Real Estate
  Imagine a wealthy Roman senator drafting his last will and testament. He might have used the phrase "do, lego" to formally state that his sprawling estate in the countryside, complete with its olive groves and vineyards, was to be transferred to his eldest son upon his passing. This declaration legally ensured the specific piece of land would become his son's property.

• Example 2: Bequeathing Personal Property
  Consider a prominent Roman merchant who owned a valuable collection of rare scrolls and intricate bronze statues. In his will, he could have employed "do, lego" to designate that his entire collection of scrolls should go to the local library, and his bronze statues to his favorite nephew. This formalized his intention to gift these specific items.

• Example 3: Bequeathing Financial Assets
  A Roman matron, known for her generosity, might have included "do, lego" in her will to ensure that a specific sum of money, perhaps 10,000 sesterces, was to be given to her loyal household manager as a token of gratitude for years of service. This phrase made the financial gift a legally binding bequest.