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NeCede's

Maxim 12.1.2

An argument drawn from authority is the strongest in law.

Argumentum ab auctoritate est fortissimum in lege.

Source: Co. Litt. 254a; Broom, Max. 68; Weisman, 8i Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational

Explanation

Precedent and authoritative texts are the firmest ground for legal argument — the reported cases are the best proof of what the law is.

Where this applies

  • I have strong precedent and authoritative case law supporting my position.
  • An argument backed by established authority is the most powerful in law.
  • Reported cases are the best proof of what the law actually is.

Legal domains

interpretationprocedural

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 12.1.2 — An argument drawn from authority is the strongest in law. — Co. Litt. 254a; Broom, Max. 68; Weisman, 8i (Argumentum ab auctoritate est fortissimum in lege.)

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