Legal Definitions - per universitatem

Definition: Per universitatem (pronounced puh-r yoo-nuh-vur-suh-tay-tuhm) is a Latin term used in civil law to describe the acquisition of an entire estate or inheritance by universal succession, meaning as a whole or in its entirety.

Example: When a person inherits an entire estate, including all of the assets and liabilities, they do so per universitatem. This means that they are responsible for everything that comes with the estate, not just certain parts of it.

Explanation: The term per universitatem is used to describe a situation where someone inherits everything that comes with an estate or inheritance, rather than just specific items or assets. This can be important in legal proceedings, as it determines the extent of the inheritor's responsibilities and rights.