When the cause ceases, the effect ceases.

Explanation

When the reason for a rule or obligation no longer exists, the rule or obligation itself expires; the law does not perpetuate effects whose cause has been removed.

Where this applies

• The reason for the rule no longer exists so the rule should no longer apply.
• When the underlying cause goes away, the effect should end too.
• A regulation that outlives its purpose should cease to operate.

See also

• 12.1.14 The reason of the law is the soul of the law.
• 12.2.1 The cause of a cause is the cause of the thing caused.