Maxim 1.5.220
The law requires not what is vain and useless.
Quod vanum et inutile est, lex non requirit.
Source: Co. Litt. 319; Jackson
Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational
Explanation
The law never demands a futile act — compliance with a requirement that would serve no purpose is not legally compelled.
Where this applies
- A regulation requires a filing that accomplishes absolutely nothing.
- Someone is told to perform a legal act that serves no purpose at all.
Legal domains
Cite this maxim
NeCede Max. 1.5.220 — The law requires not what is vain and useless. — Co. Litt. 319; Jackson (Quod vanum et inutile est, lex non requirit.)
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