Maxim 7.7.11
No one can improve his condition by a crime.
Nemo ex suo delicto meliorem suam conditionem facere potest.
Source: Bouvier's Law Dictionary; Dig. 50, 17, 137
Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational
Explanation
A criminal act can never serve as the foundation for bettering one's legal position — the law denies all benefit flowing from wrongful conduct.
Where this applies
- A murderer wants to inherit from their victim — the law says no.
- An embezzler is trying to keep the lifestyle funded by their crime.
Cite this maxim
NeCede Max. 7.7.11 — No one can improve his condition by a crime. — Bouvier's Law Dictionary; Dig. 50, 17, 137 (Nemo ex suo delicto meliorem suam conditionem facere potest.)
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