Legal Definitions - Mesne Profits

Definition: Mesne profits is a legal term used to describe damages for trespass. The term "mesne" means "intermediate," and it refers to the compensation that a trespasser must pay to a landowner for any damage caused to their property. This compensation can include the loss of the land's value or occupation value.

For example, if a trespasser removes minerals or timber from a landowner's property, they would be required to pay mesne profits to compensate for the loss of those resources. Similarly, if a tenant remains on a property after their lease has expired, the landlord can recover mesne profits for the rental value of the property during that time.

These examples illustrate how mesne profits are used to compensate landowners for damages caused by trespassers or hold-over tenants. Essentially, mesne profits are a way to ensure that those who use someone else's property without permission are held accountable for any harm they cause.