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NeCede's

Maxim 12.1.12

There is no disputing against one who denies principles.

Contra negantem principia non est disputandum.

Source: Co. Litt. 43; Bouvier; Weisman, 95qq Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable

Explanation

Rational discourse requires agreed premises; he who denies the foundational principles of law places himself beyond the reach of argument. (Duplicate maxim — see also 1.5.47.)

Where this applies

  • The other side denies basic legal principles so there's no common ground for debate.
  • You can't argue with someone who rejects the foundational premises of the law.
  • Rational discourse requires agreed-upon starting points.

Legal domains

procedural

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 12.1.12 — There is no disputing against one who denies principles. — Co. Litt. 43; Bouvier; Weisman, 95qq (Contra negantem principia non est disputandum.)

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