Legal Definitions - lego

Lego is a Latin term originating from Roman law, meaning "I bequeath." It was a formal declaration used within a will to designate a specific legacy—that is, to formally state the intention to give particular property, assets, or a sum of money to a named individual or entity upon the testator's (the person making the will) death.

Here are some examples illustrating the use of lego:

• Example 1: Bequeathing a Specific Property
  Imagine a wealthy Roman citizen, Aulus, drafting his will. He owns several villas and wishes to ensure his favorite country estate passes directly to his daughter, Livia. In his will, he might include a clause stating, "Lego villam meam rusticam Liviae," which translates to "I bequeath my country villa to Livia."

  This example demonstrates lego being used to formally and explicitly designate a specific piece of real estate as a legacy for a particular heir, ensuring its transfer upon Aulus's death.

• Example 2: Bequeathing a Sum of Money
  Consider a Roman matron, Julia, who wants to provide for her loyal household manager, Quintus, after her passing. She might write into her will, "Lego quinque milia sestertium Quinto," meaning "I bequeath five thousand sesterces to Quintus."

  Here, lego is used to formally assign a specific monetary amount as a legacy, ensuring that Quintus receives this sum from Julia's estate.

• Example 3: Bequeathing an Item with Sentimental Value
  A Roman scholar, Gaius, possesses a rare collection of ancient scrolls. He wishes for this collection to go to his nephew, Marcus, who shares his passion for history. In his will, Gaius might declare, "Lego collectionem meam librorum Marco," meaning "I bequeath my collection of books to Marcus."

  This illustrates lego being used to transfer ownership of a valuable personal possession, clearly indicating Gaius's intent for Marcus to inherit the specific collection.