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NeCede's

Maxim 1.2.1

So far as natural law is concerned, all men are equal.

Quod ad jus naturale attinet, omnes homines aequales sunt.

Source: Dig. 50.17.32; Co. Litt. 122b Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational

Explanation

The common law, rooted in natural law, recognizes no natural hierarchy among free men — all stand equal before the law.

Where this applies

  • A government treats one class of citizens differently from another under the law.
  • Someone argues that certain people have fewer rights based on their social position.

Topics

Common Law

Legal domains

constitutionalprocedural

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 1.2.1 — So far as natural law is concerned, all men are equal. — Dig. 50.17.32; Co. Litt. 122b (Quod ad jus naturale attinet, omnes homines aequales sunt.)

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