Legal Definitions - plea of sanctuary

Definition: A plea of sanctuary is a legal defense that allows a person to seek protection from the law by taking refuge in a sacred place, such as a church or temple. This plea is also known as a declinatory plea.

Example: In medieval times, a person accused of a crime could claim the plea of sanctuary by running to a church or other holy site. Once inside, they were protected from arrest and prosecution for a certain period of time, usually 40 days. During this time, the accused could either negotiate a settlement with their accusers or choose to leave the sanctuary and face trial.

Explanation: The example illustrates how the plea of sanctuary worked in medieval times. It shows how a person could use this defense to avoid punishment for a crime by seeking refuge in a sacred place. The 40-day period allowed the accused time to negotiate a settlement or prepare for trial, while also ensuring their safety within the sanctuary.