Maxim 3.8.8
A guardian may make the estate of an heir in his custody better, not worse.
Custos statum haeredis in custodia existentis meliorem, non deteriorem, facere potest.
Source: 7 Co. 7; Weisman, 53a
Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational
Explanation
The guardian holds a fiduciary position — he may improve the ward's estate by prudent management but may not diminish it by waste, sale, or self-dealing.
Where this applies
- A guardian sells the ward's property to benefit themselves.
- A custodian of a child's estate wastes the assets.
See also
Cite this maxim
NeCede Max. 3.8.8 — A guardian may make the estate of an heir in his custody better, not worse. — 7 Co. 7; Weisman, 53a (Custos statum haeredis in custodia existentis meliorem, non deteriorem, facere potest.)
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