R

In old English law. A writ for taking away an heir holding in socage, of which there were two sorts: One when the heir was married; the other when he was not. Reg. Orig. 163. … [Read more...] about RAPTU HAEREDIS

Rate; proportion; degree. Reason, or understanding. Also a cause, or giving judgment therein. Ratio decidendi. The ground of decision. The point in a case which determines the judgment. Ratio legis. The reason or occasion of a law; the occasion of making a law. Bl. Law Tracts, 3. Ratio est formalis causa consuetndi nis. Reason is the formal cause of custom. Ratio est legis … [Read more...] about RATIO

Lat. In old English law. Ravished. A technical word in old indictments. 2 East, 30. … [Read more...] about RAPUIT

Latin meaning the reasons for a decision. … [Read more...] about RATIO DECIDENDI

An opprobrious term, applied to persons of bad character. The law does not presume that a damage has arisen because the defendant has been called a rascal, and therefore no general damages can be recovered for it; if the party has received special damages in consequence of being so called, be can recover a recompense to indemnify him for his loss. … [Read more...] about RASCAL