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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