Maxim 4.1.11
All things which belong to the wife belong to the husband; the wife has no power of her own, the husband has it all.
Omnia quae sunt uxoris sunt ipsius viri; non habet uxor potestatem sui, sed vir.
Source: Co. Litt. 112; Jackson; Weisman, 79o
Difficulty 3/5 — Intermediate
Explanation
At common law, the doctrine of coverture merged the wife's legal identity into her husband's — her property and legal capacity were subsumed under his authority during marriage.
Where this applies
- A married woman's property rights under old common law are discussed.
- The historical doctrine of coverture is examined in a property dispute.
Cite this maxim
NeCede Max. 4.1.11 — All things which belong to the wife belong to the husband; the wife has no power of her own, the husband has it all. — Co. Litt. 112; Jackson; Weisman, 79o (Omnia quae sunt uxoris sunt ipsius viri; non habet uxor potestatem sui, sed vir.)
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