Skip to content
NeCede's

Maxim 2.2.14

The supreme power may loose, but cannot bind, itself.

Potestas suprema seipsam dissolvere potest, ligare non potest.

Source: Bac. Max. Reg. 19; Jackson Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable

Explanation

The highest power can release itself from its own constraints but cannot permanently bind its successors — no legislature can enact an irrepealable statute.

Where this applies

  • A legislature tries to pass a law that can never be repealed.
  • A government attempts to permanently bind all future governments.

Legal domains

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 2.2.14 — The supreme power may loose, but cannot bind, itself. — Bac. Max. Reg. 19; Jackson (Potestas suprema seipsam dissolvere potest, ligare non potest.)

Found an error? Suggest a correction →