Legal Definitions - calumniae judicium

Definition: Calumniae judicium is a Latin term used in Roman law. It refers to a countersuit that a defendant can bring after winning a judgment in the principal action. This countersuit is brought against the person who maliciously sued the defendant.

Example: Let's say that John sues Jane for stealing his car. However, Jane did not steal John's car, and the court finds her innocent. In this case, Jane can file a calumniae judicium against John for maliciously suing her.

Explanation: The example illustrates how calumniae judicium works. If someone is sued maliciously and wins the case, they can file a countersuit against the person who sued them. This countersuit is meant to compensate the defendant for the harm caused by the malicious lawsuit.