Legal Definitions - droit de bris

Term: Droit de bris
Definition: The droit de bris was a right claimed by lords of the coasts of France to fragments of shipwrecks, including persons or property that had washed ashore. This right was exercised primarily in Bretagne. However, it was abrogated by Henry III as duke of Normandy, Aquitaine, and Guienne, in a charter granted in A.D. 1226. The droit de bris is also known as droit de bris sur le naufrages.
Example: If a shipwreck occurred off the coast of Bretagne, the lords of the coast would claim the right to any fragments of the shipwreck that washed ashore. This could include people or property. However, this right was abolished in 1226 by Henry III.