Legal Definitions - fiscus

Definition: Fiscus (fis-kus) is a Latin term that means "the basket" or "moneybag." It has three main definitions:

1. In Roman law, it referred to the emperor's treasury. Later on, it also included the treasury of the state, which was called Aerarium.
2. In history, it referred to the treasury of a monarch, noble, or any private person. This was where forfeited property was kept.
3. It can also refer to the treasury or property of the state, which is different from the private property of the monarch. This is similar to Hanaper.

Examples:

• During the Roman Empire, the fiscus was where all the taxes and tributes collected from the provinces were kept. This money was used to fund the emperor's expenses and the military.
• In medieval Europe, the fiscus of a monarch was where all the confiscated property of criminals and rebels was kept. This property was often sold to raise money for the monarch's treasury.
• Today, the fiscus of a state refers to the government's treasury or budget. This is where taxes and other revenues are collected and used to fund public services and projects.

The examples illustrate how the term fiscus has been used throughout history to refer to different types of treasuries or budgets. In each case, it is a place where money or property is kept and used to fund various expenses.