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NeCede's

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It concerns the State that judgments be not rescinded.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NeCede Max. 2.1.16 — It concerns the State that judgments be not rescinded.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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