By the same mode by which a thing is bound, by that it is also released or dissolved.

Explanation

(English-origin maxim.) An obligation must be dissolved by the same form or authority by which it was created — what is bound by deed is released by deed; what is bound by consent is released by consent.

Where this applies

• A contract made by mutual written agreement can only be dissolved by another mutual written agreement — an oral cancellation will not do.
• A deed transferring property must be undone by another deed of equal formality, not by a casual conversation.
• An obligation created by a court order can only be released by another court order — the same authority that bound must be the authority that unbinds.