with their consent, with a view to effecting an amicable adjustment of the dispute. A general name given to the diplomatic representatives sent by one state to another, including ambassadors, envoys, and residents. In ecclesiastical law . A person ordained according to the usages of some church or associated body of Christians for the preaching of the gospel and filling the pastoral office. In practice . An officer of justice, charged with the execution of the law, and hence termed a ” ministerial officer ;” such as a sheriff, bailiff, coroner, sheriff’s officer. Britt. c. 21. An agent; one who acts not by any inherent authority, but under another.
Black’s Law Online Dictionary
