Simple English definitions for legal terms
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An edict is a formal decree or proclamation issued by a country's leader. It can have the same legal force as a law in some countries. In ancient Rome, an edict was a constitution or law proclaimed by the emperor and had the force of law. Magistrates could also issue edicts relevant to their jurisdiction or area of competence. There were different types of edicts, such as the praetorian edict, which explained the grounds on which a formula would be granted, and the edictum aedilicium, which gave remedies for sales of defective goods, animals, or slaves.
Definition: A formal decree, demand, or proclamation issued by the sovereign of a country. In some countries, an edict has legal force equivalent to that of a statute.
These examples illustrate how an edict is a formal proclamation that has the power of law behind it. It is a way for a ruler or government to make a demand or decree that must be followed by the people.