Bonus
The Cyclopedic Law Dictionary · Walter A. Shumaker and George Foster Longsdorf; ed. James C. Cahill · 1922
The Cyclopedic Law Dictionary
Something over and above, something additional, by way of compensation for something done or omitted; something not a gratuity, but beyond what is regularly due.
16 Wal. 471; 24 Conn. 154.
A premium paid to a grantor or vendor or donated sum beyond strict legal right. A consideration given for what is received. Extraordinary profit accruing in the operations of a stock company or private corporation.
10 Ves. 185; 7 Sim. 634; 2 Spence, Eq. Jur. 569.
An additional premium paid for the use of money beyond the legal interest.
2 Pars, Cont. 391.
In its original sense of "good," the word was formerly much used. Thus, a jury was to be composed of twelve good men (boni homines) (3 Bl. Comm. 349), bonus judex (a good judge) (Co. Litt. 246). An extra or donated sum beyond strict legal right. BONUS JUDEX SECUNDUM AEQUUM et bonum judicat, et aequitatem strfcto Juri praefert. A good judge decides according to justice and right, and prefers equity to strict law.
Co. Litt. 24; 4 Term R. 344; 2 Q. B. 837; Broom, Leg. Max. (3d London Ed.) 77.