Common custom is better than royal grant.

Explanation

A right established by long and general custom of the People carries greater weight than a right conferred by royal privilege; the People's practice outranks the sovereign's gift.

Where this applies

• A right established by the people's long custom is stronger than one given by royal grant.
• Custom of the People outranks a privilege conferred by the government.
• The People's established practice carries more weight than official grants.

See also

• 11.4.2 Custom is sustained by its own force through continuance.
• 12.5.4 Every worthier thing draws to it the less worthy, though the latter be more ancient.