Letters patent are a way for a ruler to assign titles, land or a privilege to people, groups or families. In many cases they can be granted by a representative on behalf of their ruler. All patents are hereditary, and can be passed on to succeeding generations, although they can also be rescinded by the Ruler who grants them.. This list has been prepared in order of significance, letters patent shown higher in the list always superceed lower ranked patents.

Patents of Nobility – This type of document that confers a title on an individual. Peerage Titles (such as Duke or Count) are only conferred by Kings. Kings, Dukes and Princes can all appoint Barons. Lord and Lord-Dominus titles are often issued by the king’s representatives against given criteria. Many Patents of Nobility relate to land, and in that case Land Grant Patents must be incorporated into the new document.

Land Grant Patents – This type of document formalises the grant of land from a ruler or senior noble to one of their subordinates, along with specific rights they have over the land. Patents of Palatine Land Ownership must be signed and delivered by a ruler. Patents of Manorial land ownership are often signed and issued by the ruler’s representatives. Other types of land or property ownership do not need a Patent, just a contract with the Local Lord, as they do not confer any special rights.

Patents of Rights – A Patent of Rights is a document that confers a specific right on an individual, often as a reward, or as payment for a service. This can be almost anything, but Marik’s exclusive right to negotiate the Sootscale Kobolds, is a very good example.