Public rights are to be preferred to private.

Explanation

Where a private claim conflicts with a recognized public right — such as navigation on public waters, passage on public highways, or access to common lands — the public right prevails. This maxim does not authorize government to override individual natural rights in the name of collective benefit.

Where this applies

• A private developer's project conflicts with public access to a park — the public interest wins.
• My personal property rights conflict with a legitimate public need — how is that resolved?