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NeCede's

Maxim 1.5.3

No man should be condemned unheard and unsummoned, unless for contumacy.

Nemo inauditus nec insummonitus condemnari debet, si non sit contumax.

Source: Jenk. Cent. 8; Jackson; Weisman, 65s Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational

Explanation

Due process of law requires notice and an opportunity to be heard before any condemnation — only willful refusal to appear (contumacy) justifies proceeding in a party’s absence.

Where this applies

  • A person is found guilty without ever being notified of the charges or given a hearing.
  • A court enters a judgment against someone who was never served with process.

Legal domains

interpretation

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 1.5.3 — No man should be condemned unheard and unsummoned, unless for contumacy. — Jenk. Cent. 8; Jackson; Weisman, 65s (Nemo inauditus nec insummonitus condemnari debet, si non sit contumax.)

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