Maxim 7.1.13

No crime is greater than disobedience.

Nullum crimen majus est inobedientia.

Source: Jenk. Cent. 77; Jackson Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable

Explanation

Disobedience to lawful authority strikes at the foundation of order itself — every other crime is a particular wrong, but disobedience is a rejection of the rule of law as such.

Where this applies

A citizen refuses to comply with a lawful court order.
A government official openly defies the constitution they swore to uphold.

Legal domains

constitutional criminal

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 7.1.13 — No crime is greater than disobedience. — Jenk. Cent. 77; Jackson (Nullum crimen majus est inobedientia.)

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