A mens et thoro

The phrase “a mens et thoro” is a Latin legal term commonly used in the context of marriage and family law. It is part of the expression “a mensa et thoro,” which translates to “from bed and board” in English.

In legal terms, a decree of “a mensa et thoro” refers to a legal separation where a married couple is officially separated but not divorced. It involves a court-ordered arrangement that allows the couple to live apart, and it may address issues such as spousal support, child custody, and division of property.

Despite the separation, the marriage itself is not terminated, and the couple remains legally married. However, this term is less commonly used nowadays, as many jurisdictions offer legal separation through alternative legal mechanisms, and couples often choose to pursue divorce instead of a formal separation.