'Declinatory plea' definitions:

Definition of 'Declinatory plea'

From: GCIDE
  • Declinatory \De*clin"a*to*ry\ (?; 277), a. [LL. declinatorius, fr. L. declinare: cf. F. d['e]clinatoire.] Containing or involving a declination or refusal, as of submission to a charge or sentence. --Blackstone. [1913 Webster]
  • Declinatory plea (O. Eng. Law), the plea of sanctuary or of benefit of clergy, before trial or conviction; -- now abolished. [1913 Webster]