Legal Definitions - brieve

Definition: In Scottish law, a brieve is a type of chancery writ that orders a trial to be held on specific matters mentioned in the writ. In modern times, brieves are rarely used except in cases where a curator needs to be appointed for an incompetent person.

One example of a brieve being used is in a case where a person is deemed incompetent and needs a curator appointed to manage their affairs. The court may issue a brieve to order a trial to determine who should be appointed as the curator.

Another example could be a brieve being issued to order a trial to settle a dispute between two parties over a piece of property.

These examples illustrate how a brieve is a legal tool used in Scottish law to order a trial to be held on specific matters. It is a way for the court to ensure that justice is served and disputes are settled fairly.