Maxim 3.7.7
He who does not do what he ought to do is not deemed to do what he does.
Qui non facit quod facere debet, non videtur facere quod facit.
Source: Branch, Princ.; cf. 4 Co. 24b
Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable
Explanation
A half-performed duty is no duty performed. An officer who goes through the motions without fulfilling the substance of his obligation has done nothing the law recognizes.
Where this applies
- An officer goes through the motions of their job but does not actually fulfill their duty.
- A public servant appears to perform their role but accomplishes nothing of substance.
Legal domains
See also
Cite this maxim
NeCede Max. 3.7.7 — He who does not do what he ought to do is not deemed to do what he does. — Branch, Princ.; cf. 4 Co. 24b (Qui non facit quod facere debet, non videtur facere quod facit.)
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