sequestraatio

Sequestraatio is a term that can refer to several distinct concepts, primarily in legal and medical contexts. In Roman law, sequestraatio referred to a form of bailment where a movable object was placed in the hands of a third party, the sequestrary, pending the outcome of a dispute concerning ownership or possession of that object. The sequestrary was obligated to hold the object until the dispute was resolved and then deliver it to the party determined to be rightful owner or possessor. This legal mechanism aimed to preserve the property and prevent its deterioration or loss during litigation.

In modern legal systems, particularly in civil law traditions, the concept of sequestration can be seen as an evolution of this historical practice, often involving the seizure or impoundment of property by a court or other authority to secure a debt, prevent its disposal, or preserve it as evidence. This can occur in various legal proceedings, including bankruptcy, divorce settlements, or criminal investigations. The term is also used in some jurisdictions to describe the legal process by which a person's assets are managed by an independent administrator, often due to insolvency or mental incapacity.

Beyond its legal applications, sequestraatio can also appear in a medical context, though less commonly. In medicine, it might refer to the sequestration of blood or fluid in a particular part of the body, leading to localized swelling or other symptoms. However, this usage is rare and often replaced by more specific medical terminology. The primary and most widely understood meaning of sequestraatio remains rooted in legal principles concerning the holding or seizure of property.