The law provides for the future; the judge for the past.

Explanation

The legislature speaks to future conduct; the judge resolves past disputes. Neither should trespass upon the other's domain.

Where this applies

• A legislature passes a law for the future and a judge applies existing law to a past dispute.
• The roles of the legislature and judiciary are confused.

See also

• 1.7.12 The law looks forward, not backward.
• 8.1.1 No man ought to be a judge in his own cause.