Legal Definitions - dominus directus

DOMINUS DIRECTUS

Domino directus is a Latin term used in feudal law. It refers to the immediate feudal superior, who is the lord of a vassal or tenant.

For example, if a lord owns a piece of land and rents it out to a vassal, the lord is the dominus directus, and the vassal is the dominus utilis. The dominus directus has the right to collect rent and taxes from the vassal and can also demand military service or other obligations.

In another example, if a king grants a piece of land to a lord, the king is the dominus directus, and the lord is the dominus utilis. The lord has the right to use the land and collect rent from the vassals who live on it, but the king retains ultimate ownership and control.

These examples illustrate how the dominus directus was the immediate feudal superior who held power and authority over their vassals or tenants.