Legal Definitions - praedictus

Praedictus is a historical legal term derived from Latin, meaning "aforesaid" or "previously mentioned." It was commonly used in older legal documents, such as pleadings, deeds, and statutes, to refer back to a person, place, or thing that had already been identified earlier in the same document. This usage helped to avoid repetition and ensure clarity, precisely indicating that the subject being referred to was the one already introduced.

Historically, in legal pleadings, praedictus was often specifically used to refer to a defendant, a particular town, or specific parcels of land. This precision helped ensure that there was no ambiguity about which entity or item was being discussed when referenced again later in the text.

• Example 1: Property Deed

  Imagine an old property deed from the 18th century. The deed might first describe a specific piece of land in detail, including its boundaries and dimensions. Later in the document, when discussing the transfer of ownership, it might state, "the said John Smith does hereby convey the praedictus parcel of land to Mary Jones."

  Explanation: Here, praedictus refers back to the specific parcel of land that was fully described at the beginning of the deed. It ensures that the reader understands exactly which property is being transferred without needing to repeat the entire lengthy description.

• Example 2: Court Pleading

  In a historical court document, a complaint might first identify "Mr. Arthur Jenkins, resident of Springfield, who is the defendant in this action." Later, when detailing the alleged wrongdoings, the document might state, "It is further alleged that the praedictus Mr. Jenkins did, on the 15th day of March, unlawfully trespass upon the plaintiff's property."

  Explanation: In this context, praedictus clearly indicates that "Mr. Jenkins" is the same individual who was previously identified as the defendant. It serves as a concise and unambiguous way to refer to an already introduced party.

• Example 3: Historical Statute or Ordinance

  Consider an old municipal ordinance concerning public safety. It might first define "the central market square" as a specific area within the town, detailing its exact location. Subsequent clauses in the ordinance might then refer to "all activities within the praedictus market square" when outlining regulations for that area.

  Explanation: Here, praedictus ensures that any regulations or provisions apply specifically to the "central market square" that was previously defined, preventing confusion with other public spaces or markets in the town.