legitimis

Legitimis is a term that can refer to several concepts, primarily within legal and historical contexts. In Roman law, legitimation (legitimatio) was the process by which a natural child could be made legitimate, conferring upon them the same legal rights as a child born within marriage. This was often achieved through subsequent marriage of the parents or through specific legal declarations.

The concept of legitimation also appears in canon law and subsequently influenced secular legal systems in many European countries. Historically, a legitimate child was one born in lawful wedlock, with all the associated rights of inheritance and social standing. Illegitimate children, often referred to as natural children or bastards, faced various legal and social disabilities.

In contemporary legal systems, the distinction between legitimate and illegitimate children has largely been abolished in many jurisdictions, emphasizing equality regardless of the circumstances of birth. However, the historical context of legitimis remains relevant for understanding the evolution of family law and inheritance rights.

Beyond legal usage, "legitimis" could also be used more broadly to denote something that is lawful or recognized by established rules or authority. This could apply to customs, practices, or claims that have gained acceptance or validation over time within a particular society or domain. The precise meaning often depends on the specific field or historical period in which the term is used.