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NeCede's

Maxim 2.2.3

Nothing is so becoming to authority as to live in accordance with the laws.

Nihil tam proprium imperio quam legibus vivere.

Source: Fleta, lib. 1, c. 17, s. 11; Weisman, 11c Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational

Explanation

Authority is legitimate only when exercised within the bounds of law. An officer who acts outside the law acts without authority.

Where this applies

  • A government official acts outside the bounds of the law they swore to uphold.
  • A public servant violates the very rules they enforce on citizens.

Topics

Delegation of Authority

Legal domains

constitutionalsovereignty

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 2.2.3 — Nothing is so becoming to authority as to live in accordance with the laws. — Fleta, lib. 1, c. 17, s. 11; Weisman, 11c (Nihil tam proprium imperio quam legibus vivere.)

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