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- A legislature tries to pass a law that can never be repealed.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.)
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