The term “fama publica” is of Latin origin and refers to a person’s public reputation within their community. In the past, this reputation could be used as evidence against them in a criminal trial, even if it was based on rumors and hearsay rather than actual proof. The process of distilling this information involved representatives from the community presenting it to a jury of twelve freeholders, who would then pass it on to the sheriff. This practice was not always based on firsthand knowledge of crimes, but rather on rumors passed down from others. Another related term is “ill fame.”
Fama publica, a Latin term meaning “public repute,” pertains to an individual’s reputation within their community. In the past, a person’s fama publica could be used as evidence against them in a criminal case. For instance, during the thirteenth century, when a coroner conducted an inquiry into a deceased person, the fama publica was carefully examined. Representatives from the vills would present their findings to a jury of twelve freeholders, who represented the hundred. The presentments that the twelve jurors were willing to endorse were then submitted to the sheriff. Our current grand jurors’ legal predecessors were not primarily responsible for reporting crimes they witnessed or originating the fama publica. Instead, they passed on and endorsed rumors that had been reported to them by others. In simple terms, fama publica refers to the perception of others within your community. If you possess a positive fama publica, people will trust and respect you. Conversely, a negative fama publica may lead to distrust and accusations of wrongdoing.
Fama Publica is a Latin term that translates to “public fame” or “public reputation.” In legal terms, it refers to the public knowledge or awareness of a particular fact or event.
Fama Publica is often considered a defence in defamation cases. If a statement is already widely known or published, it may not be considered defamatory since it does not harm the subject’s reputation any further.
No, Fama Publica is generally not applicable in privacy cases. Privacy laws protect individuals from the public disclosure of private information, regardless of whether it is widely known or not.
The concept of Fama Publica may vary in its recognition and application across different legal jurisdictions. It is important to consult local laws and legal experts to understand its relevance in a specific jurisdiction.
No, Fama Publica does not provide a legal justification for the publication of confidential or classified information. Such disclosures may still be subject to legal consequences, such as breach of contract or violation of national security laws.
No, Fama Publica does not protect individuals or organisations from liability for spreading false information. If false information harms someone’s reputation or causes damage, they may still be held accountable under defamation or other relevant laws.
Fama Publica may have limited applicability in invasion of privacy claims related to social media. While widespread dissemination of information may impact the expectation of privacy, it does not automatically absolve individuals from liability for unauthorized disclosure or invasion of privacy.
No, Fama Publica does not provide a legal basis for using someone’s image or likeness without their consent. The right to control one’s image or likeness is protected by privacy and publicity rights, which generally require explicit consent for its use.
No, Fama Publica is not a valid defence against copyright infringement claims. Copyright laws protect original works of authorship, and the widespread knowledge or publication of a work does not grant others the right to reproduce, distribute, or display it without permission.
No, Fama Publica does not provide a legal defence for the disclosure of trade secrets or confidential business information. Trade secrets are protected by intellectual property laws, and their unauthorized disclosure can lead to legal consequences, such as trade secret misappropriation claims.
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: 17th 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/fama-publica/
- Modern Language Association (MLA):Fama Publica. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. May 09 2024 https://dlssolicitors.com/define/fama-publica/.
- Chicago Manual of Style (CMS):Fama Publica. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. https://dlssolicitors.com/define/fama-publica/ (accessed: May 09 2024).
- American Psychological Association (APA):Fama Publica. dlssolicitors.com. Retrieved May 09 2024, from dlssolicitors.com website: https://dlssolicitors.com/define/fama-publica/
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