Legal Definitions - duumviri

Definition: Duumviri were magistrates in ancient Rome who were elected or appointed in pairs to hold an office or perform a function. There were two types of duumviri: municipales and navales. The municipales were two judicial magistrates who were annually elected in towns and colonies. The navales were two officers who were appointed to man, equip, and refit the navy. The term duumviri can also refer to two peers in authority.

Example: In ancient Rome, the duumviri municipales were responsible for maintaining law and order in their towns and colonies. They would hear cases and make judgments on legal matters. The duumviri navales, on the other hand, were responsible for overseeing the navy and ensuring that it was properly equipped and maintained. These examples illustrate how duumviri were appointed to perform specific functions and carry out important duties in ancient Rome.