Legal Definitions - nummi pupillares

Nummi pupillares is a term used in Scots law to describe money or funds that legally belong to a child who is considered a "pupil." In the context of Scots law, a "pupil" refers specifically to a child below the age of legal puberty, which is typically under 12 for girls and under 14 for boys. During this period, children are not considered to have the legal capacity to manage their own financial affairs, and therefore, their money is subject to specific legal protections and management by guardians or trustees.

• Example 1: Inherited Funds

  A 9-year-old boy in Scotland inherits a substantial sum of money from a deceased aunt. Because he is under the age of 14, he is considered a "pupil" under Scots law. The inherited funds are therefore classified as nummi pupillares. This means the money will not be given directly to him but will instead be managed by a legal guardian or placed into a trust, ensuring it is protected and administered for his benefit until he reaches an age where he can legally manage it himself.

• Example 2: Monetary Gift from a Trust

  A wealthy grandparent establishes a trust fund for their 6-year-old granddaughter, depositing a significant amount of money into it for her future education. Since the granddaughter is a "pupil" (under 12) in Scots law, the funds held in this trust on her behalf are considered nummi pupillares. The trustees are legally responsible for managing these funds prudently, ensuring they are used according to the trust's terms and for the granddaughter's benefit, as she cannot legally control the money herself.

• Example 3: Legal Compensation

  A 5-year-old girl is awarded financial compensation following a successful personal injury claim. As she is a "pupil" under Scots law, the settlement money is designated as nummi pupillares. This legal classification ensures that the funds are not simply handed over to her parents but are instead held in a protected account or managed by a court-appointed guardian, safeguarding the money for her future needs and preventing its misuse until she is old enough to manage her own finances.