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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