In Roman law. An officer whose duties are described in Dig. 5, 4, 18, 7. See Id. 48, 8, 6; Cod. 10, 75. Literally, a peace-officer or magistrate. … [Read more...]

practice. This term is applied to those things which cannot legally be replevied. For example, in Pennsylvania no goods seized in execution or for taxes, can be replevied. … [Read more...]

That which cannot be revoked. 2. A will may at all times be revoked by the same person who made it, he having a disposing mind; but the moment the testator is rendered incapable to make a will he can no longer revoke a former will, because he wants a disposing mind. Letters of attorney are generally revocable; but when made for a valuable consideration they become irrevocable. … [Read more...]

This term is applied to such an interposition of human agency, as is, from its nature and power, absolutely uncontrollable; as the inroads of a hostile army. Story on Bailm. 25; Lois des Batim. pt. 2. c. 2, 1. It differs from inevitable accident; the latter being the effect of physical causes, as, lightning, storms, and the like. … [Read more...]

rhetoric. A term derived from the Greek, which signifies dissimulation. It is a refined species of ridicule, which, under the mask of honest simplicity or ignorance, exposes the faults and errors of others, by seeming to adopt or defend them. 2. In libels, irony may convey imputations more effectually than direct assertion, and render the publication libelous. … [Read more...]