Definition and Citations:
A testament by which a testator leaves his property to his family. Sandars, Just. Inst. 207. See INOFFICIOUS TESTAMENT. Officit conatus si eflectus sequatur. The attempt becomes of consequence, if the effect follows. Jenk. Cent. 55. Officium nemini debet esse damnosum. Office ought not to be an occasion of loss to any one. A maxim in Scotch law. Bell.