Legal Definitions - Custos Brevium

Definition: Custos Brevium (pronounced kuh-stohs bree-vee-uhm) is a Latin term that means "keeper of the writs." It refers to a clerk who used to receive and file the writs that were returnable to the Courts of King's Bench and Common Pleas. This office was abolished in 1837.

Example: In the past, when someone wanted to file a writ with the Courts of King's Bench or Common Pleas, they would give it to the Custos Brevium. This clerk would then keep the writ safe and make sure it was returned to the court on the appropriate date.

Explanation: The example illustrates how the Custos Brevium was responsible for receiving and filing writs. This was an important job because it ensured that the court received all the necessary documents for a case. Without the Custos Brevium, there could have been confusion or delays in the legal process.