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NeCede's

Maxim 8.1.37

How long reasonable time ought to be is not defined by law, but depends upon the discretion of the judges.

Quam longum debet esse rationabile tempus, non definitur in lege, sed pendet ex discretione justiciariorum.

Source: Co. Litt. 56; Jackson; Weisman, 100g Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable

Explanation

What constitutes "reasonable time" is a question of fact and judicial discretion determined by the circumstances of each case, not by rigid statutory prescription.

Where this applies

  • The statute says 'within a reasonable time' but doesn't define what that means.
  • How long is 'reasonable' for responding to a legal notice?

Legal domains

evidenceprocedural

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 8.1.37 — How long reasonable time ought to be is not defined by law, but depends upon the discretion of the judges. — Co. Litt. 56; Jackson; Weisman, 100g (Quam longum debet esse rationabile tempus, non definitur in lege, sed pendet ex discretione justiciariorum.)

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