Legal Definitions - lifelode

Lifelode (also spelled livelode) is an older legal term that refers to the means by which a person supports themselves and maintains their existence. It encompasses the resources, income, or provisions necessary for one's sustenance and livelihood.

Here are some examples to illustrate this term:

• Example 1: Historical Will Provision

  Imagine an 18th-century will where a wealthy landowner bequeaths a small annuity (a fixed annual payment) and the use of a modest dwelling to his elderly housekeeper, stating that these provisions are for her "lifelode."

  Explanation: In this context, the annuity provides a regular income for food and other necessities, while the dwelling provides shelter. Together, these resources constitute the essential means for the housekeeper to live and support herself, thus securing her "lifelode" as intended by the will.

• Example 2: Trust for Dependent Support

  Consider a modern trust fund established by parents for their adult child who has significant special needs. The trust document specifies that the income generated by the fund should be used to cover the child's living expenses, medical care, and other essential needs, ensuring their "lifelode" for the duration of their life.

  Explanation: The trust provides the financial resources and provisions that enable the child to maintain their standard of living and cover all necessary costs. This arrangement directly addresses and secures the child's means of support, or "lifelode," by ensuring their ongoing sustenance.

• Example 3: Divorce Settlement for Spousal Support

  In a divorce settlement from the early 20th century, a judge might have ordered a husband to pay a substantial monthly alimony to his former wife, explicitly noting that this payment was intended to secure her "lifelode," given societal norms at the time often limited women's independent earning capacity.

  Explanation: The alimony payment serves as the primary financial resource for the wife, allowing her to cover her living expenses, maintain her household, and generally sustain herself. This payment directly provides her with the necessary means of support, fulfilling the concept of her "lifelode."