Legal Definitions - odio et atia

Definition: Odio et atia is a legal term that means "of hatred and malice." It refers to a writ that orders a sheriff to summon a 12-member jury to investigate whether a prisoner jailed for murder was charged for a good reason or only because of ill-will. The jury would also determine whether bail should be set for the prisoner.

Example: If someone is accused of murder, but it is suspected that the charges were brought against them out of spite or malice, a writ of odio et atia may be issued. The jury would then investigate the circumstances surrounding the charges and determine whether bail should be set for the accused.

This writ is similar to habeas corpus and was first mentioned in Magna Carta. It was an important legal protection for individuals who were wrongly accused of crimes and faced imprisonment without just cause.