Legal Definitions - nefastus

Nefastus is a term originating from ancient Roman law that refers to a specific type of day when certain official public activities were legally forbidden.

During a nefastus day, it was considered unlawful to open the courts, conduct legal proceedings, or hold public assemblies. These days were typically designated for religious ceremonies or other significant public observances, meaning that the regular governmental and judicial functions of the state were temporarily suspended to honor these special occasions.

Here are some examples illustrating the concept of a nefastus day:

• Imagine a modern nation that, by constitutional decree, designates a particular national holiday, such as a "Day of Remembrance," during which all judicial courts are legally mandated to be closed. On this day, no new legal filings can be processed, no court hearings can take place, and legislative bodies are adjourned, preventing any new laws from being debated or passed. The entire day is dedicated solely to national reflection and commemorative events.

  This scenario exemplifies a nefastus day because it describes a period when the ordinary administration of justice and the conduct of public legislative assemblies are explicitly prohibited by law, allowing the nation to focus on a designated solemn observance.

• Consider a situation where a major international sporting event, like the Olympic Games, is being hosted in a city. To ensure the smooth operation and security of the event, the city's government might issue an ordinance suspending all non-essential municipal services, closing administrative offices, and prohibiting any unscheduled public gatherings or protests within designated event zones for the duration of the games. The city's resources and public attention are entirely directed towards the international event.

  This situation reflects the spirit of a nefastus day because it outlines a period where typical public business and the general right to hold public assemblies are temporarily suspended or made unlawful, prioritizing a specific, large-scale public event.