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NeCede's

Maxim 1.5.171

No iniquity is to be presumed in law.

Nullum iniquum est praesumendum in jure.

Source: 7 Co. 71; Jackson Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational

Explanation

The law presumes itself to be just — an interpretation that would make the law work an injustice is to be rejected in favor of one that produces an equitable result.

Where this applies

  • An interpretation of a law would make the law itself unjust.
  • A court must choose between reading a statute as fair or unfair and chooses the fair reading.

Legal domains

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 1.5.171 — No iniquity is to be presumed in law. — 7 Co. 71; Jackson (Nullum iniquum est praesumendum in jure.)

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