Legal Definitions - privilegium

Privilegium

Privilegium is a term used in Roman and Civil law to describe a special right or favor granted to an individual that goes against the usual rules. It can be a law passed in favor of or against a specific person, or a special right given to a creditor.

• In Roman law, a wealthy citizen might receive a privilegium allowing them to avoid certain taxes that others had to pay.
• In Civil law, a person might receive a privilegium allowing them to break a contract without penalty, even though this would not normally be allowed.

These examples illustrate how a privilegium is a special right or favor granted to an individual that goes against the usual rules. It can be used to exempt someone from a law or give them an advantage over others.