SUPERNUMERARI

Rom. civil law. From the reign of Constantine to Justinian, advocates were divided into two classes: viz. advocates in title, who were called statute, and supernumeraries. The statutes were inscribed in the matriculation books, and formed a part of the college of advocates in each jurisdiction. The supernumeraries were not attached to any bar in particular, and could reside … [Read more...] about SUPERNUMERARI

Extra witnesses beyond the number needed. For example, a third witness where only two witnesses are required under law. … [Read more...] about SUPERNUMARY WITNESSES

A vote where more than 50% is required, such as a 2/3 vote. Usually used as an anti-takeover measure by public companies. … [Read more...] about SUPERMAJORITY

Over-swearing. A term anciently used when a criminal endeavored to excuse himself by his own oath or the oath of one or two witnesses, and the crime objected against him was so plain and notorious that he was convicted on the oaths of many more witnesses. Wharton. … [Read more...] about SUPER-JURARE

In Scotch law. The dominium directum of lands, without the profit 1 Forb. Inst. pt. 2, p. 97. … [Read more...] about SUPERIORITY