Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Enfranchisement of copyhold refers to the process of converting a type of land tenure called copyhold into freehold tenure. Copyhold was a type of base tenure that required the tenant to provide customary services to the lord of the manor. Over time, the customs of the manor dictated what services a lord could demand from a copyholder. However, this type of tenure was abolished in 1922, and copyhold land was converted into freehold or leasehold land. Enfranchisement could be achieved through a conveyance of the fee simple from the lord of the manor to the copyholder, a release by the lord of all seigniorial rights, or a release by the copyholder to the lord of the copyholder's interest in the estate.
Definition: Enfranchisement of copyhold refers to the process of converting copyhold tenure into freehold tenure. This can be done through a conveyance of the fee simple from the lord of the manor to the copyholder, a release by the lord of all seigniorial rights, or a release by the copyholder to the lord of the copyholder's interest in the estate.
Example: Copyhold tenure was a base tenure that required the tenant to provide customary services of the manor, as reflected in the manor's court rolls. Over time, the customs of the manor dictated what services a lord could demand from a copyholder. By the end of the fifteenth century, to hold by copy of the court roll, to be a 'copyholder,' was a definite advantage, and in most cases, the holders had been personally free for many generations.
Explanation: This example illustrates how copyhold tenure developed over time and how it was eventually converted into freehold tenure through enfranchisement. It also shows how copyhold tenure was advantageous for holders and how it was similar to other types of tenure, such as socage.
Example: The Law of Property Act of 1922 abolished copyhold land and converted it into freehold or leasehold land.
Explanation: This example shows how enfranchisement of copyhold was achieved through legislation, which abolished copyhold land and converted it into freehold or leasehold land.