Legal Definitions - libellus

A libellus is a historical legal term referring to a formal written document, often a petition, complaint, or statement, typically submitted to a court or other authority. In certain historical contexts, it could also refer to a document used to convey rights or ownership of land.

• Example 1 (Formal Petition to a Court): Consider a scenario in ancient Rome where a citizen believed they had been unjustly accused of a crime. They might prepare a libellus – a detailed written statement presenting their defense and requesting a fair hearing from the presiding magistrate. This document would formally initiate their legal challenge.

  Explanation: This illustrates the libellus as a formal written petition or statement submitted to a court to present a case or seek a specific legal action.

• Example 2 (Document for Land Transfer): In a historical legal system, if a landowner wished to formally grant a specific plot of land to a tenant or another party for a set period, they might issue a libellus. This document would clearly outline the boundaries of the land, the terms of the grant, and the rights conveyed, serving as the legal instrument for the land transfer.

  Explanation: Here, the libellus functions as a historical legal instrument used to convey or transfer rights or ownership related to land.

• Example 3 (Bill of Complaint): Imagine a historical court where an individual sought to sue another for breach of contract. The plaintiff would typically present a libellus to the court. This document would meticulously detail the alleged breach, the damages incurred, and the specific relief requested, serving as the initial formal pleading to commence the lawsuit.

  Explanation: This example demonstrates the libellus as a formal legal petition or a "bill of complaint" that initiates a legal proceeding by formally stating the facts and charges to the court.