Maxim 1.5.64
From lapse of time, all things are presumed to have been done rightly and regularly.
Ex diuturnitate temporis omnia praesumuntur esse rite et solenniter acta.
Source: Jenk. Cent. 185; Jackson; Weisman, 100e
Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable
Explanation
Long-standing acts and proceedings enjoy a presumption of regularity — the passage of time cures minor defects in form and shifts the burden to him who alleges irregularity.
Where this applies
- A decades-old transaction is challenged as improperly executed.
- Someone claims a 50-year-old deed was signed incorrectly.
Legal domains
Cite this maxim
NeCede Max. 1.5.64 — From lapse of time, all things are presumed to have been done rightly and regularly. — Jenk. Cent. 185; Jackson; Weisman, 100e (Ex diuturnitate temporis omnia praesumuntur esse rite et solenniter acta.)
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