Legal Definitions - obtulit se

Obtulit se is a Latin phrase that translates to "offered himself." In historical English legal practice, this term was formally entered into court records to indicate that one party had appeared in court and presented themselves, signaling their readiness to proceed with the case. This notation was particularly significant when the opposing party failed to appear on the scheduled court date, highlighting the appearing party's formal presence and willingness to engage in the legal process.

• Example 1: A Land Dispute Hearing

  Imagine a dispute over land ownership in 18th-century England. Mr. Davies had filed a claim against his neighbor, Mr. Thompson. On the day appointed for the hearing, Mr. Davies arrived at the courthouse with his attorney, prepared to present his evidence and arguments to the judge. Mr. Thompson, despite having received a summons, did not appear. The court clerk would have recorded that Mr. Davies "obtulit se," formally acknowledging his presence and readiness to proceed with the legal action, even in the absence of the opposing party.

• Example 2: A Debt Collection Case

  Consider a historical scenario where a merchant, Master William, sued a customer for an unpaid debt. When the case was called before the magistrate, Master William stepped forward, indicating his formal appearance and his intent to pursue the claim. The customer, who was the defendant in the case, failed to show up. The court's official record would then reflect that Master William "obtulit se," documenting his formal presentation in court and his willingness to move forward with the legal proceedings against the absent debtor.

• Example 3: A Procedural Motion

  In a complex inheritance case from centuries past, a specific procedural hearing was scheduled to address a preliminary motion filed by one of the claimants, Lady Catherine. On the day of the hearing, Lady Catherine's legal representative appeared in court, ready to argue the motion. The legal team representing the other claimant, her estranged cousin, did not attend. The court record would note that Lady Catherine's representative "obtulit se," signifying their formal appearance and readiness to participate in the legal process, despite the opposing party's absence.