Maxim 6.3.19
The mandate of an illegal thing is void.
Rei turpis nullum mandatum est.
Source: Dig. 17, 1, 6, 3; Bouvier, *Law Dictionary* (1856); Weisman, 62f
Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational
Explanation
No man can lawfully commission another to do what the law forbids — an unlawful mandate creates no obligation on either party.
Where this applies
- My boss told me to go threaten a competitor — I don't have to obey an illegal order.
- Someone hired me to carry out an unlawful act — the mandate itself is void.
See also
Cite this maxim
NeCede Max. 6.3.19 — The mandate of an illegal thing is void. — Dig. 17, 1, 6, 3; Bouvier, *Law Dictionary* (1856); Weisman, 62f (Rei turpis nullum mandatum est.)
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