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Simple English definitions for legal terms
plea of sanctuary
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A quick definition of plea of sanctuary:
A plea of sanctuary is a type of legal defense called a declinatory plea. It means that the accused person is asking for protection from punishment by claiming that they are seeking refuge in a sacred place, such as a church or temple. This plea was used in medieval times and is no longer recognized in modern legal systems.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: A plea of sanctuary is a legal defense that allows a person to seek protection from the law by taking refuge in a sacred place, such as a church or temple. This plea is also known as a declinatory plea.
Example: In medieval times, a person accused of a crime could claim the plea of sanctuary by running to a church or other holy site. Once inside, they were protected from arrest and prosecution for a certain period of time, usually 40 days. During this time, the accused could either negotiate a settlement with their accusers or choose to leave the sanctuary and face trial.
Explanation: The example illustrates how the plea of sanctuary worked in medieval times. It shows how a person could use this defense to avoid punishment for a crime by seeking refuge in a sacred place. The 40-day period allowed the accused time to negotiate a settlement or prepare for trial, while also ensuring their safety within the sanctuary.