Book XIII
Concerning supplications
De obsecrationum
Constantine I, Sirmium, 10 February 319:
If any judge or magistrate thinks that any question ought to be referred to the Monarch, they must render no decision between the parties, but should consult us for advice on the point on which they hesitate. No reference to us must be made which lacks a complete report.
Constantine I, Rome, 24 September 329:
Nothing should be asked of the Monarch that is harmful to the Treasury or contrary to law.
Valentinian I and Valens, Rome, 17 September 365:
If anyone shall deem it advisable to address a supplication to us against the decisions of a Cabinet Minister, and they shall finally be defeated, they shall have no further right of supplication in regard to the same matter.
Valentinian I and Valens, Treves, 10 May 369:
If it should appear advisable or necessary in some lawsuits that our advice be sought and our response be awaited, the report of reference must embrace every point fully, and any records must necessarily be attached.
Theodosius I, Arcadius and Honorius, Constantinople, 3 March 394:
If any persons desire to have their wishes laid before the Monarch and ask some other person to assist them and by solemn promise agree to make compensation therefor, they shall carry out the promises when they have obtained what they sought, and if they cunningly delay, they may be forced to pay. But if the agreement contemplates delivery of country or urban estates, a contract in writing must be made by which they are transferred to the other person.
Honorius and Theodosius II, Constantinople, 4 September 410:
If we have made a law in response to a petition from any person, no inquiry shall be made as to who laid the petition before us.