Skip to content
NeCede's

Maxim 1.5.201

Every grant is to be most strongly taken against the grantor.

Quaelibet concessio fortissime contra donatorem interpretanda est.

Source: Co. Litt. 183; Jackson Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable

Explanation

Ambiguities in a grant are resolved against the party who drafted it — the grantor had the opportunity to express himself clearly and bears the consequence of any uncertainty.

Where this applies

  • A land deed is ambiguous and the buyer argues for the broader reading.
  • A grant is unclear and the dispute is whether to construe it for or against the grantor.

Legal domains

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 1.5.201 — Every grant is to be most strongly taken against the grantor. — Co. Litt. 183; Jackson (Quaelibet concessio fortissime contra donatorem interpretanda est.)

Found an error? Suggest a correction →