Novodamus, A charter of novodamus is the name given to a charter by preceas which contains a clause of novodamus. This clause is subjoined to the dispositive clause; and by it the superior, whether the Crown or a subject, grants de novo the subjects, rights, or privileges therein described. Such a clause is usually inserted where the vassal is sensible of some defect or flaw in the former right, or where he desires, in this manner, to get free of burdens chargeable upon the subject for casualties due to the superior; for a charter of novodamus is accounted in law an original right, which imports a discharge of all prior burdens.