Codicil

What is a Codicil in Roman Law?

A codicil is a supplementary document that modifies, explains, or revokes provisions in an existing will (testament). In Roman law, a codicil serves as an important tool for individuals to update their testamentary intentions without needing to create an entirely new will, ensuring that their wishes remain current and accurately reflected.

In Context

Codicils are relevant in modern legal contexts, particularly when changes to a will are necessary due to evolving circumstances. A notable example is the case of Re Kaye (2017), where the court considered the validity of a codicil that altered specific bequests. This case highlights how codicils can introduce complexities in estate administration, reflecting the principles established in Roman law regarding testamentary modifications and the importance of clarity in expressing one's intentions.

See Also

• Testament  

• Legatum  

• Will

Learn More

For a more comprehensive understanding of codicils and their role in estate planning, check out our Roman Law Notes for detailed discussions and practical examples.