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NeCede's

Maxim 10.9.2

Where the same reason exists, there the same law prevails; and of things similar, the judgment is similar.

Ubi eadem ratio, ibi idem jus; et de similibus idem est judicium.

Source: 7 Co. 18; Co. Litt. 191; Weisman, 97g Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational

Explanation

The law is governed by reason, not by accident; when two facts present the same rationale, neither party may claim a different rule.

Where this applies

  • The same reasoning applies to my case so the same law should govern.
  • Where the rationale is identical, the rule must be the same.
  • You can't claim a different rule when the underlying reason is the same.

Legal domains

interpretationprocedural

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 10.9.2 — Where the same reason exists, there the same law prevails; and of things similar, the judgment is similar. — 7 Co. 18; Co. Litt. 191; Weisman, 97g (Ubi eadem ratio, ibi idem jus; et de similibus idem est judicium.)

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