Define: Mercenarius

Mercenarius
Mercenarius
Quick Summary of Mercenarius

A mercenarius, also known as a mercenary, is an individual who is hired to work for someone else. They can serve as an employee, servant, or even a soldier who fights for monetary gain rather than loyalty to a country or cause.

Full Definition Of Mercenarius

The Latin word Mercenarius (m?r-s?-nair-ee-?s) has two meanings: an employee or servant, and a soldier of fortune. For instance, John is a mercenarius at the local grocery store, meaning he is an employee who gets paid for his services. On the other hand, the mercenarius in the second example is a soldier who fights for the highest bidder, regardless of the cause or country.

Mercenarius FAQ'S

Hiring a mercenary is generally illegal in most countries. The use of mercenaries is often considered a violation of international law and can lead to severe legal consequences.

Yes, mercenaries can be held accountable for their actions. They can be subject to criminal charges and prosecution for any illegal activities they engage in, such as war crimes or human rights abuses.

Yes, there are legal regulations in place to control and prohibit mercenary activities. These regulations vary from country to country and are often established through international treaties and conventions.

No, mercenaries are not considered legitimate combatants under international law. They do not enjoy the same legal protections as regular soldiers and can be treated as unlawful combatants if captured.

Yes, a mercenary can be sued for damages caused by their actions. Victims or their families may file civil lawsuits seeking compensation for injuries, loss of life, or property damage resulting from the mercenary’s activities.

Yes, if a mercenary commits a crime in one country and then flees to another, extradition treaties may allow for their return to face legal proceedings in the country where the crime was committed.

While mercenaries are generally not afforded the same legal protections as regular soldiers, they still have certain rights under international law, such as the right to a fair trial and protection against torture or cruel treatment.

Mercenaries may attempt to claim self-defence if they believe their actions were necessary to protect themselves or others. However, the legitimacy of such claims would depend on the specific circumstances and the applicable laws of the jurisdiction.

In some cases, governments may grant amnesty or pardons to mercenaries as part of peace negotiations or reconciliation efforts. However, this is a complex and controversial issue, and the decision to grant amnesty is typically made on a case-by-case basis.

While the use of mercenaries is generally discouraged and illegal, some governments or military organisations may still attempt to recruit individuals for specific purposes. However, this practice is heavily regulated, and involvement in such activities can have serious legal consequences for both the recruiter and the mercenary.

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Disclaimer

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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