Legal Definitions - authenticum

Definition: Authenticum (aw-then-tuh-kum) refers to an original document or instrument. In Roman and civil law, it also refers to a Latin version of 134 Novels that were promulgated by Justinian between A.D. 535 and 556, mostly in Greek. These Novels were laws that dealt with various legal issues.

Examples: An example of an authenticum could be a handwritten will that is signed by the testator and witnesses. This document would be considered an original instrument and would be legally binding. Another example could be a land deed that is signed by the parties involved and notarized. This document would also be considered an authenticum.

The Latin version of 134 Novels promulgated by Justinian is another example of an authenticum. These Novels were important laws that dealt with various legal issues such as marriage, property, and inheritance. They were considered original instruments and were used as a reference for legal matters.

The examples illustrate that an authenticum is an original document or instrument that is legally binding and important for legal matters.