AD Quod Damnum, a writ directed to the sheriff, commanding him to inquire what harm may befall the king by granting a fair or market in any town, or place. See FAIR, MARKET, etc.
The same writ also issues for an inquiry to be made of what the king or other person may suffer, by granting lands in fee-simple to a convent, chapter, or other body politic; because such land falls into mortmain, or a dead hand: that is, into such condition, that the chief lord loses all hope of heriots, service of court, and escheats, upon any traitorous or felonious offense committed by the tenant: for that a body politic dies not, nor can perform personal service to the king or their mesne lords;as single persons may do. See MORTMAIN.
AD Quod Damnum
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- Written by: Ephraïm Chambers
- Category: Unclassified