Maxim 2.1.16
It concerns the State that judgments be not rescinded.
Interest reipublicae res judicatas non rescindi.
Source: 2 Inst. 359; Jackson
Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable
Explanation
The finality of judgments serves the public interest by preventing endless relitigation — settled matters should remain settled unless fundamental error of jurisdiction is shown.
Where this applies
- A court judgment is overturned years later, destabilizing settled expectations.
- A government tries to rescind a final judicial decision for political reasons.
Legal domains
Cite this maxim
NeCede Max. 2.1.16 — It concerns the State that judgments be not rescinded. — 2 Inst. 359; Jackson (Interest reipublicae res judicatas non rescindi.)
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