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Simple English definitions for legal terms
scriptum indentatum
Read a random definition: International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea
A quick definition of scriptum indentatum:
Scriptum Indentatum: Scriptum indentatum is a legal term that means "indented writing." It refers to a type of contract called an indenture. An indenture is a written agreement between two parties that is divided into two or more copies, each with a jagged or indented edge that matches the other copies. This was done to prevent fraud and ensure that all parties had an authentic copy of the agreement.
A more thorough explanation:
SCRIPTUM INDENTATUM
Scriptum indentatum is a Latin term that means "indented writing." In legal history, it refers to a type of contract known as an indenture.
An example of a scriptum indentatum is a contract between an apprentice and a master craftsman. The contract would be written on a single piece of parchment, which would then be cut in half with a jagged edge. Each party would keep one half of the parchment, and the jagged edge would serve as a unique identifier to prove that the two halves belonged together.
Another example of a scriptum indentatum is a land deed. The deed would be written on a single piece of parchment, which would then be cut in half with a jagged edge. The seller would keep one half of the parchment, and the buyer would keep the other half. The jagged edge would serve as proof that the two halves belonged together and that the transaction was legitimate.
The examples illustrate how scriptum indentatum was used in legal documents in the past. The unique jagged edge of the parchment ensured that the two halves of the contract or deed belonged together and that they were not tampered with. This was an important security measure in a time when forgery and fraud were common.