It is a wretched state of things when the law is vague or uncertain.

Explanation

Vague law is no law at all; it subjects the People to the arbitrary will of whoever interprets it, rather than to a fixed and knowable rule. (Duplicate maxim — see also 2.3.7.)

Where this applies

• The law is so vague nobody knows what it requires or prohibits.
• A vague statute subjects people to arbitrary enforcement.
• People can't follow a law they can't understand — vague laws are oppressive.

See also

• 2.3.7 It is a wretched state of slavery which subsists where the law is vague or uncertain.
• 10.2.10 From the words of the law there must be no departure.
• 10.3.7 When in the words there is no ambiguity, no exposition contrary to the expressed words is to be made.