Decies tantum is a legal phrase denoting “ten times as much.” In the past, it was a writ employed to penalize jurors who accepted bribes in exchange for their verdict. The writ mandated that the juror pay ten times the sum of the bribe, with half being awarded to the plaintiff and the other half to the Crown. Any individual had the right to initiate legal action for this offence, and those who facilitated such corrupt proceedings were also subject to punishment. However, it was not within the jurisdiction of the justice system to investigate this matter ex officio; rather, it could only be pursued upon the request of the involved party.
Decies tantum is a legal term that means “ten times as much.” It was used in the past to punish jurors who accepted bribes for a verdict. For instance, if a juror accepted a $100 bribe, they would have to pay $1000 under decies tantum. Half of this amount would go to the party that sued the juror, and the other half would go to the Crown. This writ aimed to discourage jurors from accepting bribes and to ensure fair justice. It was also used to punish those who arranged such corrupt practices.
Decies Tantum is a Latin legal term that translates to “ten times as much.” It refers to a legal doctrine that allows a plaintiff to claim ten times the actual damages suffered in certain cases.
Decies Tantum can be applied in cases where the defendant’s actions were willful, wanton, or malicious, resulting in harm or injury to the plaintiff.
Decies Tantum allows for enhanced damages, meaning the plaintiff can claim ten times the actual damages suffered, whereas regular damages only compensate for the actual harm caused.
No, Decies Tantum is not applicable in all types of legal cases. It is typically used in cases involving intentional torts, such as assault, battery, defamation, or fraud.
The court considers various factors, including the defendant’s intent, the severity of the harm caused, the plaintiff’s emotional distress, and any aggravating circumstances surrounding the case.
Decies Tantum is generally not awarded in cases of negligence, as it requires a higher level of intent or malice on the part of the defendant.
Yes, there are limitations to claiming Decies Tantum. Some jurisdictions may have specific statutory provisions that limit the application of Decies Tantum or set a cap on the maximum amount that can be claimed.
Decies Tantum is primarily a civil law concept and is not typically awarded in criminal cases. However, some jurisdictions may have provisions that allow for enhanced damages in certain criminal cases.
The possibility of Decies Tantum can significantly impact settlement negotiations, as defendants may be more inclined to settle to avoid the risk of facing enhanced damages if the case goes to trial.
Decies Tantum is primarily recognized in common law jurisdictions, such as the United States and England. However, the specific application and availability of Decies Tantum may vary depending on the jurisdiction and its legal framework.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 16th April 2024.
To help you cite our definitions in your bibliography, here is the proper citation layout for the three major formatting styles, with all of the relevant information filled in.
- Page URL:https://dlssolicitors.com/define/decies-tantum/
- Modern Language Association (MLA):Decies Tantum. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. May 09 2024 https://dlssolicitors.com/define/decies-tantum/.
- Chicago Manual of Style (CMS):Decies Tantum. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. https://dlssolicitors.com/define/decies-tantum/ (accessed: May 09 2024).
- American Psychological Association (APA):Decies Tantum. dlssolicitors.com. Retrieved May 09 2024, from dlssolicitors.com website: https://dlssolicitors.com/define/decies-tantum/
Our team of professionals are based in Alderley Edge, Cheshire. We offer clear, specialist legal advice in all matters relating to Family Law, Wills, Trusts, Probate, Lasting Power of Attorney and Court of Protection.
All author posts