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NeCede's

Maxim 8.2.5

The verdict of twelve good and lawful men is held by the common law to be the declaration of truth.

Duodecim proborum et legalium hominum dictum, per legem communem, veritatis dictum habetur.

Source: Halk. Max. 73; Co. Litt. 155b; Weisman, 67c Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable

Explanation

The unanimous verdict of a proper jury of twelve is the highest form of factual determination known to the common law — no lesser body may supplant it.

Where this applies

  • The twelve jurors unanimously agreed on the facts — that verdict carries enormous weight.
  • The common law requires a unanimous verdict of twelve for good reason.

Topics

Jury Trial

Legal domains

procedural

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 8.2.5 — The verdict of twelve good and lawful men is held by the common law to be the declaration of truth. — Halk. Max. 73; Co. Litt. 155b; Weisman, 67c (Duodecim proborum et legalium hominum dictum, per legem communem, veritatis dictum habetur.)

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