Skip to content
NeCede's

Maxim 10.6.4

General things precede, special things follow.

Generalia praecedunt, specialia sequuntur.

Source: Branch, Princ.; Bouvier, Max. 128; Weisman, 98e Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable

Explanation

In the natural order of legislation and drafting, general principles are laid down first, and specific provisions — which may qualify or limit the general — follow after.

Where this applies

  • In legislation, general principles come first and specific qualifications follow.
  • The natural order is: state the broad rule, then add the particulars.
  • General provisions precede special ones in proper drafting.

Legal domains

interpretation

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 10.6.4 — General things precede, special things follow. — Branch, Princ.; Bouvier, Max. 128; Weisman, 98e (Generalia praecedunt, specialia sequuntur.)

Found an error? Suggest a correction →