What is meant by the term "not of sound mind"?

The term "not of sound mind" refers to an individual's mental capacity, indicating that a person may be unable to make rational decisions or understand the consequences of their actions due to mental illness, cognitive impairment, or other conditions affecting their mental state. The correct answer, "Non compos mentis," is a legal term derived from Latin, which directly translates to "not of sound mind." This phrase is often used in legal contexts to assess a person's competency or ability to enter into contracts, make legal decisions, or stand trial.

In contrast, the other terms presented have different legal meanings: "Per centum" refers to a percentage; "Nunc pro tunc" indicates a retroactive effect, often used in legal documents to correct earlier rulings; and "Pendente lite" pertains to matters that are pending a decision, typically in relation to ongoing legal proceedings. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing the specific legal implications of various terms.