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NeCede's

Maxim 1.5.144

The multitude of those who err gives no excuse to error.

Multitudo errantium non parit errori patrocinium.

Source: 11 Co. 75; Jackson; Weisman, 37n Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational

Explanation

The popularity of a mistake does not make it right — no matter how many follow a wrong course, the error remains an error and the law does not bend to accommodate it.

Where this applies

  • Everyone follows a legal interpretation that turns out to be wrong.
  • The fact that most lawyers agree on something does not make it correct.

Legal domains

propertytort

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 1.5.144 — The multitude of those who err gives no excuse to error. — 11 Co. 75; Jackson; Weisman, 37n (Multitudo errantium non parit errori patrocinium.)

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