Legal Definitions - solidum

Solidum is a Latin term from Roman law that refers to something considered as a whole or an undivided thing. In legal contexts, it often implies that an obligation, right, or responsibility applies to the entirety of something, rather than being divisible among parts or individuals. It's closely related to the concept of "solidary" obligations, where multiple parties are each responsible for the full amount of a debt or duty.

Here are some examples to illustrate this concept:

• Example 1: Joint Loan Responsibility

  Imagine two business partners, Alice and Ben, take out a loan for their new venture. If the loan agreement specifies that they are liable for the debt in solidum, it means that the bank can demand the entire outstanding loan amount from either Alice or Ben individually, not just their respective half-shares. The debt is treated as a single, undivided whole, and each partner is fully responsible for that whole amount.

• Example 2: Undivided Property Ownership

  Consider a unique, antique sculpture jointly inherited by two siblings, Clara and David. If their ownership is considered in solidum, it means they own the sculpture as a complete, indivisible unit. Neither sibling can unilaterally sell or dispose of "their half" of the sculpture without the other's agreement, as the object itself is treated as an undivided whole. Any decision regarding its maintenance or sale must address the sculpture in its entirety.

• Example 3: Contractual Performance

  A client hires a design firm to create a comprehensive branding package, including a logo, website, and marketing materials. If the contract states that the firm's obligation is to deliver the branding package in solidum, it means the client expects the entire suite of deliverables as a complete, integrated unit. The firm cannot claim to have fulfilled its obligation by delivering only the logo; the performance must encompass the whole, undivided package as specified in the agreement.