Legal Definitions - fortia

Definition: Fortia (for-shuh) is a Latin term used in law. It has two meanings:

1. Force: Fortia refers to the force used by someone who helps another person commit a crime. This person is called an accessory. The force they use is called fortia. For example, if someone holds a victim down while another person steals their wallet, the person holding the victim down is using fortia.
2. Power: Fortia can also mean power, dominion, or jurisdiction. This means having control over something or someone. For example, a king has fortia over his kingdom. He has the power to make laws and enforce them.

Examples:

• Example 1: A man helps his friend rob a store. While his friend is stealing, the man holds the store owner at gunpoint. The man is using fortia to help his friend commit the crime.
• Example 2: A teacher has fortia over her classroom. She has the power to make rules and enforce them. If a student breaks a rule, the teacher can give them a punishment.

The examples illustrate the two meanings of fortia. In example 1, the man is using force to help his friend commit a crime. In example 2, the teacher has power over her classroom.