Legal Definitions - executio bonorum

Executio Bonorum

Historically, executio bonorum referred to the management or administration of goods, property, or assets. It described the process of taking control over and overseeing the use, distribution, or preservation of someone's possessions, often in a legal or official capacity.

• Example 1: Managing a Deceased Person's Estate
  Imagine a wealthy landowner in the 17th century who passes away without a clear will. A court might appoint a trusted individual to undertake the executio bonorum, meaning they would be responsible for gathering all the deceased's livestock, crops, household items, and financial holdings. This person would then manage these assets, perhaps selling some to pay debts, maintaining others, and eventually distributing them to the rightful heirs according to legal custom.

  This illustrates executio bonorum because it involves the comprehensive oversight and handling of a deceased person's entire collection of goods and property by an appointed administrator.

• Example 2: Overseeing the Assets of a Minor Heir
  Consider a young noble child who inherits a significant estate, including lands, buildings, and valuable personal property, but is too young to manage it themselves. A guardian or trustee might be legally tasked with the executio bonorum for the child's inheritance. This would involve managing the income from the lands, ensuring the buildings are maintained, and safeguarding the valuable items until the child reaches adulthood and can assume control.

  This demonstrates executio bonorum as it involves the active administration and protection of a minor's inherited goods and assets by a responsible party.

• Example 3: Administration of Seized Property
  In a historical context, if a person was found guilty of a serious crime leading to the forfeiture of their assets, a government official might be appointed to perform the executio bonorum. This would entail cataloging all the individual's possessions—from their furniture and jewelry to their land deeds and financial accounts—and then managing these items, perhaps selling them off to benefit the state or distributing them as directed by law.

  This exemplifies executio bonorum by showing the official management and disposition of goods that have been legally seized or confiscated.