Praetor's Edict - Influence

Influence

As later summarized by the Roman jurist Papinian (c. 148–211), the law that was developed by the Praetors in their Edict became an instrument which could supplement, explain, and improve the Ius civile. He writes:

"Praetorian law (jus praetorium) is that which in the public interest the praetors have introduced in aid or supplementation or correction of the jus civile. This is also called honorary law (jus honorarium), being so named for the high office (honos) of the praetor."

Thus, the Praetor's Edict developed into an important vehicle for the evolution of Roman civil law. A great deal of commentary was written by jurists concerning this "praetorian law" or ius honorarium, addressing the legal principles contained in this Edict.