Legal Definitions - legatus

Definition: Legatus (ləˈɡeɪtəs) is a Latin word that means a legate. It refers to a person who is appointed to represent someone else, usually a high-ranking official or a religious leader, on a special mission or diplomatic assignment.

Examples:

• Legatus a latere: This is a type of papal legate, usually a cardinal, who is appointed by the Pope for a special diplomatic mission and not as a permanent representative. For example, a legatus a latere may be sent to negotiate peace between two warring nations or to resolve a dispute between two religious groups.
• Legatus missus: This refers to a legate who is sent on a special mission, such as to deliver a message or to represent someone at an important event. For example, a king may send a legatus missus to negotiate a treaty with a neighboring kingdom.
• Legatus natus: This refers to a bishop or archbishop who claims to be a legate by virtue of office in an important see, such as Canterbury. For example, the Archbishop of Canterbury may be considered a legatus natus because of his position as the head of the Church of England.

These examples illustrate how the term legatus can be used to describe different types of representatives who are appointed to carry out specific tasks or missions on behalf of someone else. Whether it is a papal legate, a royal envoy, or a religious leader, a legatus is someone who has been entrusted with an important responsibility and is expected to carry it out with diligence and integrity.