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NeCede's

Maxim 1.5.115

The right descends, and not the land.

Jus descendit, et non terra.

Source: Co. Litt. 345; Jackson Difficulty 3/5 — Intermediate

Explanation

What passes by inheritance is the legal right to the land, not the physical soil itself — the heir succeeds to the title, and the title carries with it dominion over the land.

Where this applies

  • An heir inherits the legal title to land, not the physical dirt.
  • A property right passes to the next generation through inheritance.

Legal domains

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 1.5.115 — The right descends, and not the land. — Co. Litt. 345; Jackson (Jus descendit, et non terra.)

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