evidence. Deeds, wills, and other writings more than thirty years old, are considered ancient writings. They may in general be read in evidence, without any other proof of their execution than that they have been in the possession of those claiming rights under them. … [Read more...]

construction. The similitude of relations which exist between things compared. 2. To reason analogically, is to draw conclusions based on this similitude of relations, on the resemblance, or the connexion which is perceived between the objects compared. It is this guide, says Toollier, which leads the law lawgiver, like other men, without his observing it. It is analogy which … [Read more...]

English law. A term for eldership or seniority used in the statute of Ireland, 14 Hen. Vni. … [Read more...]

In medical Jurisprudence. Impotentia coeundi; frigidity; incapacity for sexual intercourse existing in either man or woman, and in the latter case sometimes called "dyspareunia." … [Read more...]

In English law. Gentlemen of the inns of court and chancery. In Gray's Inn the society consists of benchers, ancients, barristers, and students under the bar; and here the ancients are of the oldest barristers. In the Middle Temple, those who had passed their readings used to be termed "ancients." The Inns of Chancery consist of ancients and students or clerks; from the … [Read more...]