Simple English definitions for legal terms
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A liege woman is a term used in history to describe a woman who owed loyalty and service to a feudal lord. This was a part of the feudal system where people were bound to their lords and had to serve them. A liege woman was a loyal subject of a monarch or sovereign and had to pay homage to them. The term "liege poustie" was used in Scots law to describe the lawful power of a person to dispose of their property. This term was used to distinguish between a conveyance that was not challengeable on the ground of death-bed and one that was.
Definition: A woman who owes feudal allegiance and service to a lord paramount.
In medieval times, people were often bound by feudal tenure to a lord paramount, meaning they owed loyalty and service to a higher-ranking lord. A liege woman was a female vassal who was bound to this feudal allegiance. She was expected to be loyal and faithful to her lord and perform any duties required of her.
Example: Lady Mary was a liege woman to Lord Robert, which meant she owed him loyalty and service in exchange for his protection and support.
This example illustrates how a woman in medieval times could be bound by feudal tenure to a lord paramount and be considered a liege woman. Lady Mary owed her loyalty and service to Lord Robert, and in return, he provided her with protection and support.