Legal Definitions - novus homo

Novus homo is a historical legal term originating from Latin, meaning "new man." It refers to an individual who has received an official pardon for a past criminal offense, effectively clearing their record and allowing them to begin anew.

• Example 1: During a period of political transition in a historical kingdom, a new monarch issues a general amnesty, pardoning many individuals who had been imprisoned for acts of disloyalty or sedition against the previous regime.

  Explanation: One such individual, once branded a traitor, is now considered a novus homo. The royal pardon legally erases their past conviction, allowing them to re-enter public life without the legal stigma of their former crime, essentially giving them a "new" identity in the eyes of the law.

• Example 2: Decades ago, a young man was convicted of a minor property crime. After serving his time, he lived an exemplary life, contributing positively to his community. A compassionate governor, reviewing his case, decides to grant him a full pardon.

  Explanation: This individual becomes a novus homo. The pardon legally removes the conviction from his record, allowing him to shed the label of a former criminal and fully participate in society, for instance, by being eligible for certain licenses or positions previously denied to him due to his past offense.

• Example 3: In the aftermath of a major historical conflict, a government issues a special decree pardoning all soldiers who had been convicted of desertion under specific, extenuating circumstances, such as severe psychological trauma or lack of proper command.

  Explanation: A soldier who receives this pardon is considered a novus homo. The legal consequences of his desertion conviction are nullified, providing him with a fresh start and allowing him to rebuild his life and reputation without the burden of a military criminal record.