attainder etymology

Etymology and Meaning:

  • Origin: Old French "ateindre" (to arrive at, to reach)
  • Meaning: A legislative act of Parliament that declares a person guilty of treason or felony, resulting in the loss of civil rights, property, and, historically, the corruption of blood (preventing descendants from inheriting property or titles).

Usage:

In the English legal system, attainder was a severe form of punishment primarily used for treason or serious felonies. It carried significant consequences, including:

  • Loss of all property and possessions
  • Forfeiture of titles and honors
  • Incapacity to inherit or transmit property
  • Imprisonment or execution

Attainder fell out of common use in the 19th century, and in England, it was abolished in 1870. However, the concept of attainder still exists in some Commonwealth countries, particularly in the context of treason or other serious crimes.

attainder relate terms

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