If the old remedies can provide relief, new ones should not be tried.

Explanation

The proven remedies of the common law should be exhausted before inventing novel procedures — established forms carry the weight of precedent and the assurance of tested process.

Where this applies

• An established legal procedure exists for my claim — I should use that before inventing a new one.
• The traditional common law writ covers my situation — there's no need for a novel approach.

See also

• 1.2.1 So far as natural law is concerned, all men are equal.
• 7.9.3 Extraordinary remedies are never to be resorted to until ordinary ones fail.