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NeCede's

Maxim 1.5.17

Nothing is invented and perfected at the same moment.

Nihil simul inventum est et perfectum.

Source: Co. Litt. 230; 2 Bl. Comm. 298 n.; Weisman, 95u Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable

Explanation

Law develops over time through experience and application — new doctrines must be tested before they can be trusted.

Where this applies

  • A brand-new legal theory is treated as established doctrine before being tested.
  • Someone insists a novel legal argument should be accepted without any track record.

Legal domains

constitutionalinterpretation

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 1.5.17 — Nothing is invented and perfected at the same moment. — Co. Litt. 230; 2 Bl. Comm. 298 n.; Weisman, 95u (Nihil simul inventum est et perfectum.)

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