In 74 B.C.Verres was Praetor in Rome.

At that period of the Republic there were eight Praetors elected annually, two of whom remained in the city, whereas the others were employed abroad, generally with the armies of the Empire.

In the next year, 73 B.C., Verres went in due course to Sicily with proconsular or propraetorial authority, having the government assigned to him for twelve months.

This was usual and constitutional, but it was not unusual, even if unconstitutional, that this period should be prolonged.

In the case of Verres it was prolonged, so that he should hold the office for three years.