Legal Definitions - proprium negotium

Proprium Negotium

Proprium negotium is a historical Latin legal phrase that translates to "one's own business" or "a private matter." It refers to affairs, concerns, or undertakings that pertain exclusively to an individual or a specific private entity, distinguishing them from public interests or communal responsibilities. Essentially, it denotes something that is personal or private in nature, rather than being a public concern or duty.

• Example 1: Personal Financial Decisions
  Imagine an individual deciding how to invest their personal savings or choosing which charity to support with their private funds. These financial choices are considered proprium negotium because they relate solely to that person's private assets and discretion, without involving public funds or obligations.
• Example 2: Family Estate Planning
  A family discussing and drafting their will, determining how their private property will be distributed among heirs after their passing. This process is a clear instance of proprium negotium, as it involves private assets and personal decisions within the family unit, distinct from any public legal or governmental administration of property.
• Example 3: Independent Artisan's Work
  Consider a skilled artisan who operates a small, independent workshop, creating custom furniture. The choice of materials, the design of each piece, the pricing structure, and the selection of clients are all decisions made by the artisan for their own enterprise. These aspects fall under proprium negotium, as they are specific to the artisan's private business and not part of a public service or a larger corporate entity.