Legal Definitions - enseal

Enseal is an archaic legal term meaning to formally affix a seal to a document. Historically, a seal—often a unique impression made in wax or directly on paper—served as a crucial mark of authenticity, agreement, or official authority, signifying that a document was genuine, legally binding, or officially approved.

Here are some examples illustrating the use of "enseal":

• Imagine a monarch in the 17th century issuing a new law or royal decree. To ensure its legitimacy and widespread acceptance, the monarch would personally or through an authorized official enseal the document with the royal seal. This act formally authenticated the decree, making it an official and binding command throughout the kingdom.

• Consider a historical will or testament. In an era before modern notarization, a person creating their will might enseal the document, often in the presence of witnesses. This act of sealing confirmed their approval of the will's contents and served as a visible sign of its authenticity and the testator's intent, helping to prevent fraudulent alterations.

• When two nations in a bygone era concluded a peace treaty, their respective representatives would typically enseal the final treaty documents. Each nation's seal, affixed to the agreement, formally ratified the terms on behalf of their sovereign or government, signifying that the treaty was officially recognized and legally binding between the signatory parties.