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NeCede's

Maxim 12.2.5

Things are construed according to what was the cause of them.

Res construuntur secundum id quod fuit causa earum.

Source: Finch, Law, b. 1, c. 3, n. 4; Weisman, 14j Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable

Explanation

The purpose for which an instrument was created governs its construction — the reason for the thing illuminates the meaning of the thing.

Where this applies

  • The purpose for which the document was created should guide how it's interpreted.
  • The reason something was done illuminates what it means.
  • Understanding why an instrument was created helps you understand what it says.

Legal domains

interpretation

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 12.2.5 — Things are construed according to what was the cause of them. — Finch, Law, b. 1, c. 3, n. 4; Weisman, 14j (Res construuntur secundum id quod fuit causa earum.)

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