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NeCede's

Maxim 1.5.12

Laws are made to no purpose except for those who are subject and obedient.

Leges in vanum conficiuntur, nisi iis subjicientibus et obedientibus.

Source: Branch, Princ.; 7 Co. 13; Weisman, 72m Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational

Explanation

A law that binds no one accomplishes nothing — law derives its force from the obedience of the governed.

Where this applies

  • A law is passed that applies to no one willing to follow it.
  • A statute is enacted for a population that does not recognize the enacting authority.

Legal domains

constitutionalprocedural

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 1.5.12 — Laws are made to no purpose except for those who are subject and obedient. — Branch, Princ.; 7 Co. 13; Weisman, 72m (Leges in vanum conficiuntur, nisi iis subjicientibus et obedientibus.)

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