Legal Definitions - soit

Soit is an archaic legal term derived from Law French, meaning "be" or "let it be." In historical English law, it was primarily used to signify the sovereign's formal assent or approval, particularly in communications with Parliament or in response to petitions. It indicated that the monarch's will was for a particular action or request to be granted or carried out.

• Royal Assent to Legislation

  Context: Historically, after both Houses of Parliament passed a bill, the monarch would signify royal assent. While the common phrase for public bills was "La Reine (or Le Roy) le veult" (The Queen/King wills it), for private bills or specific parliamentary petitions, the endorsement might be "Soit fait comme il est désiré", meaning "Let it be done as it is desired."

  Explanation: In this instance, "soit" directly conveys the sovereign's approval, transforming a legislative proposal into an enacted law by declaring, "Let it be done." It signifies the monarch's formal agreement to the terms of the bill, making it legally binding.

• Granting a Petition

  Context: In past centuries, individuals or groups could submit petitions directly to the monarch or Parliament seeking redress for grievances or special privileges. If the sovereign decided to grant the petition, the response might be endorsed with "Soit droit fait", which translates to "Let right be done" or "Let justice be done."

  Explanation: Here, "soit" expresses the sovereign's command or directive that the request in the petition should be fulfilled or that the appropriate legal action should be taken. It acts as an authoritative declaration that the petition's plea is to be acted upon, ensuring that a perceived wrong is corrected or a requested right is granted.

• Historical Legal Decrees

  Context: While its most prominent use was in royal assent, "soit" could also appear in older legal records or decrees where a court or other authority formally declared that something should happen. For example, a historical court order might state, "And it is ordered that a new inquiry soit made," meaning "And it is ordered that a new inquiry *be* made."

  Explanation: In this context, "soit" functions as a formal, imperative declaration, similar to "let it be," ensuring that the specified action (a new inquiry) is officially mandated and carried out according to the court's will. It underscores the authoritative nature of the directive within a legal framework.