Law Dictionary

To search for a particular term please use the following search box.

fee-simple

An absolute inheritance, clear of any condition, limitation or restriction to particular heirs, but descendible to the heirs general, whether male or female, lineal or collateral. Tenent in fee-simple, or tenent in fee, is he that has lands, tenements, or hereditaments, to hold to him and his heirs forever - generally, absolutely and simply; without mentioning what heirs, but referring that to his own pleasure or to the disposition of the law. "An estate in fee-simple is where a man has an estate in land or tenements to him and his heirs forever." Called a "fee-simple" because it signified a pure inheritance, clear of any qualification or condition. It is an estate of perpetuity, and confers an unlimited power of alienation. A "fee-simple" is the largest estate a man can have in lands, being an absolute estate in perpetuity. The essential matter is that such an estate is so brought into existence that it may continue forever.

Source : William C. Anderson, A Dictionary of Law (1893)

Language : English

Return

Return to Law Dictionary Index