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NeCede's

Maxim 8.5.14

An action does not arise from a base cause.

Ex turpi causa non oritur actio.

Source: Cowp. 843; Jackson Difficulty 3/5 — Intermediate

Explanation

No court will lend its aid to a party whose claim is founded upon his own immoral or illegal conduct — the law will not enforce a right arising from turpitude.

Where this applies

  • I'm trying to enforce a gambling debt — the court won't help because the underlying activity is illegal.
  • A drug dealer wants to sue their partner for breach of their drug distribution agreement.

Legal domains

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 8.5.14 — An action does not arise from a base cause. — Cowp. 843; Jackson (Ex turpi causa non oritur actio.)

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