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Simple English definitions for legal terms
jus vitae necisque
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A quick definition of jus vitae necisque:
Jus vitae necisque is a Latin term that means "right of life and death." In ancient Rome, the head of the household had power over people under his control, like his children and slaves. This power was called patria potestas and included the ability to punish severely, even with death. However, over time, this power became more of a responsibility to support and care for family members. The wife did not fall under her husband's power but remained under her father's until his death. The potestas gladii was the power of the sword, and the potestas maritalis was the power of the husband, which was decaying by the end of the Republic.A more thorough explanation:
Definition: Jus vitae necisque is a Latin term that means "right of life and death." In Roman law, it refers to the power held by the head of the household over persons under his paternal power and over his slaves. This right was greatly diminished under later Roman law.
Example: The father in a Roman household had the power of life and death over his children and slaves. He could inflict any punishment, including severe ones, without violating any law. However, over time, the broad nature of the patria potestas gradually became more in the nature of a responsibility to support and maintain family members.
Explanation: The example illustrates how the father in a Roman household had complete control over his children and slaves, including the power of life and death. This power was gradually reduced over time, and the father's role became more of a responsibility to support and maintain his family members.