The law does not care for, or recognize, very small or trifling matters.

Explanation

(English-origin maxim.) De minimis non curat lex — the law will not concern itself with trivial matters. A fractional error, an insignificant deviation, a negligible harm will not sustain an action.

Where this applies

• A neighbor sues because the defendant's new fence encroaches on the property line by half an inch, and the court dismisses the case because the law does not concern itself with such trifling matters.
• A tenant withholds rent over a single burned-out light bulb in a hallway, and the court finds the defect too trivial to justify withholding payment.
• A buyer demands rescission of a car purchase because the odometer shows twelve more miles than the listing stated, and the court refuses because the discrepancy is too small for the law to recognize.