When that which I do does not have effect as I do it, let it have as much effect as it can; i.e., in some other way.

Explanation

(English-origin maxim.) Where an instrument fails in its primary purpose, the law will give it effect in any alternative capacity it can lawfully support rather than declare it a total nullity.

Where this applies

• A man writes a document intending it to be a deed, but it lacks the formalities of a deed — the court treats it as a valid contract instead, giving it as much effect as it can.
• A father's attempted trust fails for a technicality, but the court enforces the transfer as an outright gift because that is the most effect the instrument can have.
• A business agreement that fails as a formal partnership is upheld as a joint venture — the law saves what it can rather than voiding the entire arrangement.