Arbitas
The Arbitas rank among the most powerful senators, and are more commonly referred to as Judges. The rank of Arbitas is granted to those Senators who have been given the right to interpret the law of the nation, resolve disputes brought to the courts, and met out judgement for crimes. While many Senators from the Questus upwards practice as lawyers, and ply their trade in the courts, only the Arbitas are allowed to sit in judgement. This rank of Senator is always allowed to weigh in on legislation, and is capable of calling for certain special votes of the assembly. The most senior of Arbites even has the authority to call the Senate to order, and veto the acts of Princepts.
Each year 8 Legalus are elected to become Arbitas. The election process is a closely guarded secret, in order to avoid corruption. Each Arbitas serves an active term of just 1 year. But the title of Arbitas remains for life, and they can be called upon for duty if the Courts require it.
Qualifications
- 39 years of age.
- Must have obtained the rank of Legalus.
Requirements
Other than age and rank, the requirements for becoming an Arbitas are somewhat nebulous. A Senator must have shown that they are a good statesman, and been successful in passing legislation into law. In the end, it is the Rex Maxum and a council of the eldest Arbites who determine who is even eligible for election. As such many never rise above Legalus.
Appointment
As the year draws towards its end, the Rex Maxum collects a profile of those Legalus who are currently of age enough to be considered for Arbitas. He then selects those he deems most worthy of moving up the ranks. How many go before the council of elder Arbites is entier within his discretion. This Council then debates, and votes on each candidate. Those selected are given a pair of sashes at the beginning of the year, representing their new rank.
Duties
The Arbitas represents the law of the land, and as such must behave in a manner representing the Empire. Arbites serve the courts as judges,and are also expected to serve as seconds to the Princept in military matters as well. Everything from murder trials to land disputes falls to one of the Arbitas.
Benefits
The Arbitas hold a great deal of political power, and can often sway the public by force of their position alone. All disputes, major and minor, come through the Arbitas, and they hold the legal right to determine right from wrong, or determine life or death. As such the favor of even a non sitting Arbitas his highly sought after. On top of that, a successful Arbitas can reasonably expect to be granted the governorship of some province after his or her term.
Accoutrements & Equipment
When a Senator becomes an Arbitas they are given two sashes. A black one to wear while they are serving in their role as judge, and a purple one to be worn at all other times. On top of this, the Arbitas see an increase in salary from the Senate, and receive private accommodation within the Senate building. Additionally, an Arbites retinue is increased by 3 slaves, and 4 additional Lictors.
Grounds for Removal/Dismissal
The removal of an Arbite is a true tragedy, and can only be enacted under special conditions. Evidence of excessive corruption or treason must be brought before the Rex Maxus, overwhelming proof that the Arbitas in question has broken the law, served unfaithfully, or plots against the Republic. The Rex will then call a special assembly, and bring the evidence forth before the entire Senate, directly accusing the Arbitas. The Senate immediately votes. If the votes are against the Arbitas in question, then the sitting Arbites decide the punishment to be handed out, in addition to the Arbitas being stripped of all authority, governance, and retinue.
Type
Civic, Political
Alternative Naming
Judges, High Magos.
Source of Authority
The State of Ahnier
Length of Term
1 year.
Reports directly to
Related Locations
Related Organizations
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