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NeCede's

Maxim 3.5.2

Ignorance of the law excuses no one, for all are presumed to know the law.

Ignorantia legis neminem excusat; omnes enim praesumuntur legem scire.

Source: 1 Co. 177; Broom, Max. 253; Rankin v. Mortimere, 7 Watts (Pa.) 374 Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational

Explanation

The presumption of legal knowledge is universal and cannot be rebutted by a claim of personal unfamiliarity with the law.

Where this applies

  • A citizen claims they should not be punished because they were never taught the law.
  • A person argues that a law should not apply to them because they were unaware of it.

Topics

Ignorance

Legal domains

criminalprocedural

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 3.5.2 — Ignorance of the law excuses no one, for all are presumed to know the law. — 1 Co. 177; Broom, Max. 253; Rankin v. Mortimere, 7 Watts (Pa.) 374 (Ignorantia legis neminem excusat; omnes enim praesumuntur legem scire.)

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