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NeCede's

Maxim 1.3.15

Custom and common usage overcome the unwritten law if the custom is special; and they interpret the written law if the law is general.

Consuetudo et communis assuetudo vincit legem non scriptam, si sit specialis; et interpretatur legem scriptam, si lex sit generalis.

Source: Jenk. Cent. 273; Weisman, 17f Difficulty 3/5 — Intermediate

Explanation

Custom operates differently depending on its object — a special local custom displaces general unwritten law outright, while against a written statute custom serves as the interpreter rather than the overrider.

Where this applies

  • A special local custom overrides a general unwritten rule.
  • A general statute is interpreted in light of widespread community practice.

Legal domains

interpretationproperty

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 1.3.15 — Custom and common usage overcome the unwritten law if the custom is special; and they interpret the written law if the law is general. — Jenk. Cent. 273; Weisman, 17f (Consuetudo et communis assuetudo vincit legem non scriptam, si sit specialis; et interpretatur legem scriptam, si lex sit generalis.)

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