Legal Definitions - in praemissorum fidem

In praemissorum fidem is a historical Latin legal phrase that translates to "in confirmation of the premises" or "in attestation of the foregoing." It was used in legal documents to signify that the statements, facts, or agreements detailed before this phrase were being formally confirmed, attested to, or vouched for by the signatories or the authority issuing the document. Essentially, it served as a declaration that everything written previously was true and valid.

Here are some examples to illustrate its application:

• Example 1: A Historical Property Deed

  Imagine a deed from the 18th century transferring ownership of a parcel of land. The document would meticulously describe the land, its boundaries, the seller, the buyer, and the agreed-upon price. After all these details, just before the seller's signature and the witnesses' attestations, the phrase "in praemissorum fidem" would appear.

  Explanation: Here, the phrase indicates that the seller, by signing, is formally confirming and attesting to the accuracy of all the preceding descriptions of the property, the terms of sale, and their intent to transfer ownership as stated in the document.

• Example 2: A Notarized Affidavit from the Past

  Consider a historical affidavit where a witness provides a sworn statement about events they observed. The affidavit would detail the witness's identity, the date, time, and specific occurrences. Following the full narrative of their testimony, and before the witness's signature and the notary's seal, the phrase "in praemissorum fidem" would be included.

  Explanation: In this context, "in praemissorum fidem" emphasizes that the witness is formally affirming the truth and accuracy of all the facts and statements they have just recounted in their testimony, under oath.

• Example 3: A Historical Treaty or Proclamation

  Picture a treaty signed between two nations in the 17th century, outlining terms of peace, territorial boundaries, and future alliances. The treaty document would contain numerous clauses and articles detailing these agreements. At the very end, before the signatures of the monarchs or their representatives and the application of royal seals, the phrase "in praemissorum fidem" might be found.

  Explanation: Here, the phrase serves to confirm that all the preceding articles, conditions, and agreements laid out in the treaty are formally acknowledged, accepted, and attested to by the signing parties, making the entire document legally binding based on the truth of its contents.