Dedimus Potstatem - Definition - Law Dictionary

Definition :

Dedimus potstatem (we have given the power), a writ or commission to one or more private persons for the speeding of some act appertaining to a judge or a Court. it is granted most commonly upon a suggestion that the party who is to do something before a judge, or in a Court ,is so weak that he cannot travel.

On renewing the commission of the peace there cometh a writ of dedimus potestatem out of Chancery, directed to some ancient justice, to take the oath of him which is newly inserted.

Formerly the judges would not suffer litigants to appoint attorneys in any action or suit without this writ; but it has since been provided by statute that the plaintiff or defendant may appoint attorneys without such process, Jac. Law Dict.