Define: Centum Viri

Centum Viri refers to a group of one hundred men who were appointed to serve as judges or magistrates in ancient Rome.

The Centum Viri were responsible for hearing and deciding legal cases, particularly those involving serious crimes or disputes of significant importance.

The Centum Viri were chosen from the Roman citizenry through a process known as co-optation, where existing members of the group would select new members based on their qualifications and reputation.

The Centum Viri primarily dealt with cases involving capital offences, such as murder, treason, and serious property crimes. They also had jurisdiction over cases related to public administration and certain civil disputes.

Yes, the Centum Viri had the authority to impose penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and even death sentences, depending on the severity of the crime and the applicable laws.

No, the decisions made by the Centum Viri were subject to appeal. If a party was dissatisfied with the judgment, they could request a review by a higher court, such as the Roman Senate or the Emperor.

To be considered for membership in the Centum Viri, individuals were typically required to have a certain level of education, legal knowledge, and experience in public service. They were also expected to possess a good reputation and moral character.

Yes, the Centum Viri received a salary for their work as judges. This payment was intended to ensure their independence and prevent corruption.

While the Centum Viri were unique to ancient Rome, some aspects of their role and function can be seen in modern legal systems. For example, the use of juries in criminal trials and the appointment of specialized judges for certain types of cases can be seen as modern equivalents to the Centum Viri.