Lecture Notes: Latin Legal Maxims

Introduction to Latin Legal Maxims

• Origin from Roman Law.
• Roman law influences the new Civil Code.
• Latin maxims are useful for interpreting statutes.
• Adds elegance and style to legal language.

Key Latin Maxims and Their Applications

1. Lex Prospexit Non Respexit

• Translation: Law looks forward, not back.
• Related Maxim: Lex De Futuro Judex De Praeterito - Law provides for the future, judges for the past.
• Philippines Civil Code Article 4: Laws have no retroactive effect unless explicitly stated.
• US vs. Diaz (1922): Against retrospective application that alters contracts or vested rights.

2. Absoluta Sententia Expositore Non Indiget

• Translation: When the law's language is clear, no explanation is required.
• Related Case: People vs. Mapa (1967) - Interpretation comes after demonstrated impossibility of application.

3. Ratio Legis Est Anima

• Translation: The reason of the law is its soul.
• Connected Principles: Interpretation according to spirit; if the reason ceases, the law ceases.

4. Expressio Unius Est Exclusio Alterius

• Translation: Express mention implies exclusion.

5. Generalia Specialibus Non Derogant

• Translation: A general law does not nullify a specific law.
• Case Example: Rama vs. Secretary of Foreign Affairs (2010).

6. Dura Lex Sed Lex

• Translation: The law may be harsh, but it is the law.

7. Ignorantia Legis Neminem Excusat

• Translation: Ignorance of the law excuses no one.

8. Ubilex Non Distinguit Nec Nos Distinguere Debemus

• Translation: Where the law does not distinguish, neither should we.
• Constitutional Application: Equal protection under Article 3, Section 1.

9. Contemporanea Expositio Est Optima Et Fortissima In Lege

• Translation: Contemporary construction is strongest in law.

10. Falsa Demonstratio Non Nocet Cum De Corpore Constat

• Translation: False description doesn't invalidate a clear instrument.

11. Generalia Verba Sine Specialibus

• Translation: What is generally spoken shall be generally understood.

12. Index Animi Sermon Est

• Translation: Speech is the index of intention.

Conclusion

• Understanding Latin maxims is crucial for legal interpretation.
• They may be included in midterms or finals; memorization is beneficial.