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NeCede's

Maxim 2.3.5

The body of a freeman does not admit of valuation.

Liberum corpus aestimationem non recipit.

Source: Dig. 9, 3, 7; Hob. 59; Bract. fol. 14; Weisman, 35n; Weisman, 47d Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable

Explanation

A free person's body and liberty cannot be reduced to a monetary value — the basis for the rule against involuntary servitude.

Where this applies

  • A court is asked to assess monetary damages for false imprisonment.
  • Someone argues that a person's bodily freedom has a calculable dollar value.

Legal domains

constitutionaltort

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 2.3.5 — The body of a freeman does not admit of valuation. — Dig. 9, 3, 7; Hob. 59; Bract. fol. 14; Weisman, 35n; Weisman, 47d (Liberum corpus aestimationem non recipit.)

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