Skip to content
NeCede's

Maxim 2.3.6

Whenever the interpretation of liberty is doubtful, the answer should be on the side of liberty.

Quotiens dubia interpretatio libertatis est, secundum libertatem respondendum erit.

Source: Dig. 50, 17, 20; Co. Litt. 116; Weisman, 47a Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational

Explanation

Doubt is resolved in favor of the individual's liberty, never in favor of the government's power. The presumption is always freedom.

Where this applies

  • A regulation is ambiguous and could be read to restrict or protect personal freedom.
  • A doubtful legal question involves whether a person should be free or constrained.

Legal domains

constitutionalinterpretation

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 2.3.6 — Whenever the interpretation of liberty is doubtful, the answer should be on the side of liberty. — Dig. 50, 17, 20; Co. Litt. 116; Weisman, 47a (Quotiens dubia interpretatio libertatis est, secundum libertatem respondendum erit.)

Found an error? Suggest a correction →