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NeCede's

Maxim 1.3.10

A prescriptive and lawful custom overcomes the law.

Consuetudo praescripta et legitima vincit legem.

Source: Co. Litt. 113; 4 Co. 21; Weisman, 27r Difficulty 3/5 — Intermediate

Explanation

A custom that has been exercised from time immemorial and rests on lawful grounds carries the force of law and overrides general rules to the contrary.

Where this applies

  • A custom has been followed since before anyone can remember and now someone challenges it.
  • An ancient land use practice is argued to override a modern statute.

Legal domains

interpretationproperty

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 1.3.10 — A prescriptive and lawful custom overcomes the law. — Co. Litt. 113; 4 Co. 21; Weisman, 27r (Consuetudo praescripta et legitima vincit legem.)

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