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NeCede's

Maxim 4.4.11

In high treason there is no accessory, but principal alone.

In alta proditione nullus potest esse accessorius sed principalis solummodo.

Source: 3 Inst. 138; Jackson; Weisman, 26y Difficulty 3/5 — Intermediate

Explanation

In cases of high treason, the law makes no distinction between principal and accessory — all participants are treated as principals, because the offense is so grave that every degree of participation bears equal guilt.

Where this applies

  • Someone who helped plan a treason is charged as an accessory rather than a principal.
  • All participants in treason are treated the same regardless of their role.

Legal domains

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 4.4.11 — In high treason there is no accessory, but principal alone. — 3 Inst. 138; Jackson; Weisman, 26y (In alta proditione nullus potest esse accessorius sed principalis solummodo.)

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