Maxim 1.5.213
What is inconvenient, or contrary to reason, is not permitted in law.
Quod est inconveniens, aut contra rationem, non permissum est in lege.
Source: Co. Litt. 178; Jackson
Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable
Explanation
An interpretation or application of law that produces absurd or unreasonable results is presumptively wrong — the law never intends what reason condemns.
Where this applies
- A legal interpretation produces an absurd result.
- A statute is read in a way that makes no practical sense.
Cite this maxim
NeCede Max. 1.5.213 — What is inconvenient, or contrary to reason, is not permitted in law. — Co. Litt. 178; Jackson (Quod est inconveniens, aut contra rationem, non permissum est in lege.)
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