Legal Definitions - lecherwite

Definition: A fine for adultery or fornication paid to the lord of the manor; especially, a lord's privilege of receiving a fine for fornication with the lord's female villeins.

Example: In medieval times, if a man had sexual relations with a female villein who belonged to the lord of the manor, he would have to pay a lecherwite as a fine to the lord.

Explanation: The example illustrates how the lecherwite was a fine paid to the lord of the manor for sexual relations with a female villein. It was a way for the lord to maintain control over his female subjects and to discourage sexual relations outside of marriage.

Definition: Laymen; a jury.

Example: The lais gents were called upon to serve as jurors in the trial.

Explanation: The example shows how the lais gents were a group of laymen who were selected to serve as jurors in a trial. They were not legal professionals, but rather ordinary citizens who were chosen to help decide the outcome of a case.

Definition: Governmental abstention from interfering in economic or commercial affairs. The doctrine favoring such abstention.

Example: The laissez-faire approach to economics advocates for minimal government intervention in the market.

Explanation: The example demonstrates how the laissez-faire approach to economics is a hands-off approach that favors minimal government intervention in the market. It allows individuals and businesses to operate freely without government interference, which is believed to promote economic growth and prosperity.