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NeCede's

Maxim 3.5.10

It is ignorance when we do not know our own rights.

Ignorantia est cum jura nostra non cognoscimus.

Source: Haven v. Foster, 9 Pick. (Mass.) 130, 19 Am. Dec. 353; Weisman, 57e Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational

Explanation

The most dangerous form of ignorance is not ignorance of the law in general, but ignorance of one's own particular rights — for a man who does not know his rights cannot defend them.

Where this applies

  • A citizen does not know they have the right to remain silent during police questioning.
  • Someone fails to assert their rights because they do not know they exist.

Legal domains

constitutionalcriminal

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 3.5.10 — It is ignorance when we do not know our own rights. — Haven v. Foster, 9 Pick. (Mass.) 130, 19 Am. Dec. 353; Weisman, 57e (Ignorantia est cum jura nostra non cognoscimus.)

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