Things special take from things general.

Explanation

(English-origin maxim.) Specific provisions carve out their subject from the reach of general provisions — the particular takes precedence and limits the general within the area the particular governs.

Where this applies

• A general employment law says all workers get two weeks' notice before termination, but a specific statute for probationary employees says they can be let go with one day's notice — the specific statute carves its subject out of the general rule.
• A general insurance regulation requires all policies to cover flood damage, but a specific provision exempts coastal properties above a certain elevation — the specific exemption limits the general mandate.
• A general rule says all government records are public, but a specific statute protecting juvenile court records makes those files confidential — the specific takes from the general.