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NeCede's

Maxim 2.1.11

The end of a thing is to be attended to.

Finis rei attendendus est.

Source: 3 Co. Inst. 51 Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable

Explanation

The end for which government was instituted — protection of rights — determines the measure of its lawful action.

Where this applies

  • A government official claims to answer to no one except God.
  • An elected official argues they are above judicial review.

Legal domains

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 2.1.11 — The end of a thing is to be attended to. — 3 Co. Inst. 51 (Finis rei attendendus est.)

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