Maxim 12.3.6
Where the law is uncertain, there is no law.
Ubi jus incertum, ibi jus nullum.
Source: Black's Law Dictionary, 4th ed., 1181; Bouv. 160; 2 Salk. 512; Weisman, 15e
Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational
Explanation
A statute so vague that no citizen can know its command is a nullity — the law must speak clearly enough to be obeyed.
Where this applies
- The law is so vague that nobody knows what's required — that's the same as having no law.
- An uncertain statute is a nullity because it can't be obeyed.
- Where the law is unclear, there effectively is no law.
Legal domains
See also
Cite this maxim
NeCede Max. 12.3.6 — Where the law is uncertain, there is no law. — Black's Law Dictionary, 4th ed., 1181; Bouv. 160; 2 Salk. 512; Weisman, 15e (Ubi jus incertum, ibi jus nullum.)
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