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NeCede's

Maxim 7.4.3

The act of God does injury to no one.

Actus Dei nemini facit injuriam.

Source: 2 Inst. 287; 1 Coke, 97b; Co. Litt. 206a; 5 Co. 87; Weisman, 59d Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational

Explanation

No man is held liable for losses caused by forces beyond human control — where God acts, man is excused.

Where this applies

  • A tornado destroyed my barn — can I sue anyone for that?
  • Lightning struck my house — whose fault is it?

Legal domains

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 7.4.3 — The act of God does injury to no one. — 2 Inst. 287; 1 Coke, 97b; Co. Litt. 206a; 5 Co. 87; Weisman, 59d (Actus Dei nemini facit injuriam.)

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