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NeCede's

Maxim 6.6.11

He justly loses the benefit of the law who purposes to overturn the law itself.

Merito beneficium legis amittit, qui legem ipsam subvertere intendit.

Source: 2 Inst. 58; Jackson Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable

Explanation

One who seeks to destroy the legal order forfeits its protections — the law does not shield those who would undermine the very system that grants them standing.

Where this applies

  • A person who openly works to undermine the legal system can't expect that system to protect them.
  • Someone trying to overthrow the government loses the right to claim government benefits.

Legal domains

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 6.6.11 — He justly loses the benefit of the law who purposes to overturn the law itself. — 2 Inst. 58; Jackson (Merito beneficium legis amittit, qui legem ipsam subvertere intendit.)

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