(P) L1.3 Legal Maxims

Question 1

Lex Prospicit, Non respicit

Answer 1

The law looks forward, not backward

Question 2

Lex de Futuro, Judex de Praterito

Answer 2

The law provides for the future, the judge for the past (laws should be prospective, not retrospective)

Question 3

Absolute Sentencia, Expositre Non Indiget

Answer 3

When the language of law is clear, no explanation is required

Question 4

Optima Statuti Interpratix Est Insum Statutum

Answer 4

The best interpreter of the statute is itself

Question 5

Ratio Legis Est Anima

Answer 5

The reason of the law is its soul

Question 6

Ratio Legis

Answer 6

Interpretation according to spirit

Question 7

Cessante Ratione Cessat Ipsa Lex

Answer 7

When the reason for the law ceases, the law ceases to exist

Question 8

Expresio Unius Est Exclusio Alterius

Answer 8

Express mention is implied exlcusion (what is not included are deemed excluded)

Question 9

Generalia Specialibus Non Derogant

Answer 9

A general does not nullify a special law (special provision prevails over general provision)

Question 10

Dura Lex Sed Lex

Answer 10

The law may be hard, but it is the law

Question 11

Ubi Lex Non Distinguit Nea Nos Distinguere Debemos

Answer 11

Where the law does not distinguish, we should not distinguish