Define: Furtum

Furtum
Furtum
Quick Summary of Furtum

The Latin word “furtum” translates to “theft” and in Roman law, it specifically refers to the act of stealing movable property. This encompasses taking someone else’s property or handling it with the intention of making a profit. Furtum was considered a private offence and the person who suffered the loss had the right to prosecute. There were different categories of furtum, such as furtum manifestum (when the thief is caught in the act) and furtum oblatum (when the thief offers stolen property to someone who is then found with it). The punishments for furtum varied, and in certain cases, it could result in the death penalty.

Full Definition Of Furtum

Furtum, pronounced fuh-rtuhm, is a Latin term that means theft in Roman law. It refers to the act of stealing movable property. For example, if someone takes your phone without your permission, it is considered furtum. Furtum conceptum occurs when someone is caught with stolen property after a search with witnesses, while furtum manifestum is when a thief is caught in the act of stealing. These examples illustrate how furtum can refer to different types of theft, such as stealing someone’s property, being caught with stolen property, or being caught in the act of stealing.

Furtum FAQ'S

Furtum is a Latin term used in Roman law to refer to the crime of theft or stealing.

The elements of furtum typically include the unlawful taking and carrying away of someone else’s property without their consent, with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of its possession.

Yes, furtum is considered a criminal offense in most legal systems. It is generally punishable by law to deter individuals from engaging in theft.

The penalties for furtum vary depending on the jurisdiction and the value of the stolen property. They can range from fines to imprisonment, with more severe punishments for higher-value thefts or repeat offenders.

Yes, furtum can be committed without physically taking the property. For example, if someone deceives another person into transferring ownership of their property through fraud or misrepresentation, it can still be considered furtum.

Generally, furtum requires the intent to permanently deprive the owner of their property. If someone took the property by mistake or with the intention to return it, it may not meet the necessary elements for a furtum charge.

Minors can be charged with furtum, but the legal consequences may differ depending on their age and the jurisdiction. In some cases, the focus may be on rehabilitation rather than punishment.

If someone finds abandoned property and keeps it without making a reasonable effort to locate the owner, they may be charged with furtum. The key element is the intent to permanently deprive the true owner of their property.

In general, furtum requires the unlawful taking of someone else’s property. If a person steals from their own property, it may not meet the necessary elements for a furtum charge. However, other legal consequences may apply, such as breach of trust or fraud.

Yes, furtum can apply to the theft of intangible property as well. Intellectual property theft, such as copyright infringement or trade secret misappropriation, can be considered furtum if it meets the necessary elements of the offense.

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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.

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