Maxim 2.2.12
"Maxime," so called because its dignity is chiefest, and its authority the most certain, and because universally approved by all.
Maxime, so called quia maxima est ejus dignitas et certissima auctoritas, atque quod maxime omnibus probetur.
Source: Co. Litt. 11; Jackson
Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable
Explanation
A maxim of law carries the highest dignity and most certain authority because it represents a principle universally approved by the law — it is the distilled wisdom of the common law.
Where this applies
- The authority of a legal maxim is questioned.
- Someone dismisses a fundamental principle of law as mere opinion.
Legal domains
Cite this maxim
NeCede Max. 2.2.12 — "Maxime," so called because its dignity is chiefest, and its authority the most certain, and because universally approved by all. — Co. Litt. 11; Jackson (Maxime, so called quia maxima est ejus dignitas et certissima auctoritas, atque quod maxime omnibus probetur.)
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