Legal Definitions - secta regalis

Definition: Secta regalis (sek-tə ri-gay-lis) is a Latin term that means "king's suit." In history, it refers to an obligation to attend the sheriff's court twice a year. It was called so because it had the same functions and jurisdiction as the king's court.

During the medieval period, the secta regalis was a legal obligation for all free men who owned land. They were required to attend the sheriff's court twice a year to settle disputes and pay taxes. Failure to attend the court could result in fines or imprisonment.

For example, if a farmer had a dispute with his neighbor over property boundaries, they would bring their case to the sheriff's court during the secta regalis. The court would hear both sides of the argument and make a ruling based on the law.

Another example is if a merchant refused to pay taxes, they could be summoned to the sheriff's court during the secta regalis. The court would have the power to seize their goods or even imprison them until they paid their taxes.

These examples illustrate how the secta regalis was an important part of the legal system during the medieval period. It ensured that disputes were settled fairly and taxes were collected efficiently.