Legal Definitions - familia

Definition: Familia (fuh-MIL-yuh) is a Latin term used in Roman law. It has three meanings:

1. All persons, including free and enslaved individuals, who are under the power of a paterfamilias (the head of the household).
2. One's legal relations through and with one's family, including all property, ancestral privileges, and duties. For example, a person may inherit their family's property and obligations after their parents pass away.
3. A family, including household servants. This includes both hired servants and enslaved individuals who are under the authority of the head of the household.

For example, if a person is born into a wealthy family, they are part of their family's familia and may inherit their family's property and obligations. Additionally, their family may have household servants who are also part of their familia.

The term familia is important in understanding the legal and social structures of ancient Rome. It shows how power and authority were concentrated in the head of the household, and how family ties and obligations were legally recognized.