That is considered to be given which is granted when no law compels.

Explanation

(English-origin maxim.) A voluntary transfer made without legal compulsion is treated as a gift — the absence of obligation distinguishes a gift from a payment or a performance.

Where this applies

• A neighbor voluntarily mows your lawn every week without being asked or obligated — the law treats this as a gift of labor, not a debt you owe.
• A company gives employees a year-end bonus with no contractual requirement to do so, and it is treated as a gift, not earned wages.
• A stranger pays for your coffee in line without any obligation — since no law compelled the payment, it is considered a gift.