A Roman father had absolute control and authority over his children. A son never really came to age. Thus the step to adoption was not an easy one. Adoption was effected by a symbolic sale in which copper and scales were used. Twice the father symbolically sold and bought back his son, but the third time he did not buy him back. The adopting father then went to the magistrate and presented
a legal case of transference. Thus the adoption was completed

As a result the person lost all rights in the old family and gained all rights in the new one. He got a new father. He now became heir to his new father’s estate even if sons were born later it did not affect his rights. He was absolutely a co-heir. He saw his old life completely obliterated all debts cancelled.

So he was a new person entering a new life. He was literally and absolutely the son of a new father.

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