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NeCede's

Maxim 8.8.21

He who flees judgment confesses his guilt.

Fatetur facinus qui judicium fugit.

Source: 3 Inst. 14; Jackson; Weisman, 64m Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational

Explanation

Flight from justice is treated as an admission of guilt — a man who evades the court's process demonstrates consciousness of his own wrongdoing.

Where this applies

  • The defendant fled the country before trial — the court treats flight as evidence of guilt.
  • A person who runs from a court summons is presumed to be guilty.

Legal domains

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 8.8.21 — He who flees judgment confesses his guilt. — 3 Inst. 14; Jackson; Weisman, 64m (Fatetur facinus qui judicium fugit.)

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