Legal Definitions - libellus divortii

libellus divortii refers to a formal written declaration or document used in Roman law to effectuate a divorce. It served as the official notice or "bill" of divorce, signifying the legal termination of a marriage.

• Imagine a wealthy Roman citizen, Gaius, who decides he no longer wishes to be married to his wife, Livia. To legally dissolve their union under Roman law, Gaius would prepare and deliver a libellus divortii to Livia, or have it delivered on his behalf. This document would formally declare his intention to divorce, making the separation official in the eyes of the law and ending their marital bond.

• Consider a Roman matron, Cornelia, who wishes to divorce her husband, Lucius, due to his repeated infidelity. In Roman society, women also had the right to initiate divorce. Cornelia, or her guardian if she was under legal tutelage, would issue a libellus divortii to Lucius. This formal declaration would serve as the legal notice of the termination of their marriage, ensuring the divorce was recognized and recorded, and allowing Cornelia to pursue a new life.