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NeCede's

Maxim 10.7.5

Laws ought to have greater force than any exception.

Leges majorem vim habere debent quam exceptiones.

Source: Halk. Max. 74 Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable

Explanation

The exception must always remain subordinate to the general rule; an exception that swallows the rule destroys the legislative intent and is void.

Where this applies

  • The exception is being expanded so much it's swallowing the entire rule.
  • An exception that's bigger than the rule it supposedly limits is invalid.
  • Exceptions must always remain subordinate to the general law.

Legal domains

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 10.7.5 — Laws ought to have greater force than any exception. — Halk. Max. 74 (Leges majorem vim habere debent quam exceptiones.)

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