Legal Definitions - lex Julia

Definition: Lex Julia is a term used in Roman law to refer to several statutes that were enacted during the reign of Emperor Augustus or Julius Caesar. These laws covered various aspects of Roman society, including marriage, treason, bankruptcy, and electoral corruption.

• Lex Julia de adulteriis coercerendis: This law made adultery a public crime that could be punished by a court. It was enacted in 18 B.C. and was designed to discourage extramarital affairs.
• Lex Julia de maritandis ordinibus: This law regulated marriages in Roman society. It required all men between the ages of 25 and 60, and all women between the ages of 20 and 50, to be married. It also prohibited senators from marrying actresses, prostitutes, and freedwomen.
• Lex Julia de peculatu: This law punished individuals who embezzled public funds. Originally, the punishment was determined by a magistrate, but later it was decided by a court.

These examples illustrate how the Lex Julia laws covered a wide range of topics in Roman society. They were designed to maintain order and prevent corruption, and they were enforced through the court system.