What is Arriere Fee? An In-Depth Look at Its Legal Meaning

Definition & Meaning

An arriere fee is a type of fee or fief that is dependent on a superior fee, meaning it is held under the authority of another, higher fee. The term "arriere" translates to "behind" or "the rear," indicating its subordinate position in the hierarchy of feudal land ownership. This concept is rooted in historical land tenure systems where land was held in exchange for services or obligations to a lord or superior landholder.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

1. A landowner holds an arriere fee on a property that is part of a larger estate. They must provide certain services to the primary landholder, such as maintenance of shared roads.

2. (Hypothetical example) A family inherits an arriere fee from a deceased relative, which requires them to pay a portion of the property taxes to the superior landholder.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Fee Simple The most complete form of ownership in land. Arriere fee is dependent on another fee, while fee simple is independent.
Fief A piece of land held under the feudal system. An arriere fee is a specific type of fief that is subordinate to a superior fee.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe you hold an arriere fee, it is important to understand your obligations to the superior fee holder. You may want to consult with a legal professional for guidance. Additionally, you can explore US Legal Forms for templates related to property rights and obligations to help manage your situation effectively.

Quick facts

  • Type: Dependent fee
  • Hierarchy: Subordinate to a superior fee
  • Obligations: May include service or payment to the superior landholder

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

An arriere fee is a type of land fee that is dependent on a superior fee.