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NeCede's

Maxim 8.1.29

Judges are not bound to explain the reason of their sentence.

Judices non tenentur exprimere causam sententiae suae.

Source: Jenk. Cent. 75; Jackson; Weisman, 63aa Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable

Explanation

While it is good practice for judges to state their reasons, the law does not require it — the judgment itself is the authoritative act, not the explanation accompanying it.

Where this applies

  • The judge ruled against me but didn't explain why — is the ruling still valid?
  • A judge issued a one-word order with no reasoning — can I appeal based on lack of explanation?

Legal domains

procedural

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 8.1.29 — Judges are not bound to explain the reason of their sentence. — Jenk. Cent. 75; Jackson; Weisman, 63aa (Judices non tenentur exprimere causam sententiae suae.)

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