Legal Definitions - de rei gestae veritate

Definition: De rei gestae veritate (dee ree-Ijes-tee ver-i-tay-tee) is a Latin term used in Scots law. It means "of the truth of the thing done." This term is used when a witness testifies to the existence of a lost deed and the truthfulness of the statements contained in it.

Example: If a person loses a deed to their property, they can still prove ownership by calling a witness who can testify to the existence of the deed and the truthfulness of the statements contained in it. This witness would be using the principle of de rei gestae veritate.

Explanation: The example illustrates how de rei gestae veritate can be used in practice. If a deed is lost, it can be difficult to prove ownership of a property. However, if a witness can testify to the existence of the deed and the truthfulness of its contents, this can help establish ownership. This principle is important in Scots law because it allows for evidence to be presented even if the original document is lost.