Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Term: Lecherwite
Definition: Lecherwite is an old word that means a fine paid to the lord of the manor for committing adultery or fornication. It was a lord's privilege to receive this fine, especially if the person involved was a female villein. Other names for this fine include lairwite, lairesite, legerwite, leirwita, leyerwite, legenita, and legruita.
Definition: A fine for adultery or fornication paid to the lord of the manor; especially, a lord's privilege of receiving a fine for fornication with the lord's female villeins.
Example: In medieval times, if a man had sexual relations with a female villein who belonged to the lord of the manor, he would have to pay a lecherwite as a fine to the lord.
Explanation: The example illustrates how the lecherwite was a fine paid to the lord of the manor for sexual relations with a female villein. It was a way for the lord to maintain control over his female subjects and to discourage sexual relations outside of marriage.
Definition: Laymen; a jury.
Example: The lais gents were called upon to serve as jurors in the trial.
Explanation: The example shows how the lais gents were a group of laymen who were selected to serve as jurors in a trial. They were not legal professionals, but rather ordinary citizens who were chosen to help decide the outcome of a case.
Definition: Governmental abstention from interfering in economic or commercial affairs. The doctrine favoring such abstention.
Example: The laissez-faire approach to economics advocates for minimal government intervention in the market.
Explanation: The example demonstrates how the laissez-faire approach to economics is a hands-off approach that favors minimal government intervention in the market. It allows individuals and businesses to operate freely without government interference, which is believed to promote economic growth and prosperity.