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De diversis regulis juris antiqui. 

* Of divers rules of the ancient law *   


A collection of maxims and words and phrases of interest to the Christ’s ekklesia 

By: William Raymond: ambassador for the Christ


        Maxim. Maxims are but attempted general statements of rules of law and law only to the extent of application in adjudicated cases.  A principle of law universally admitted as being a correct statement of the law, or as agreeable to reason. Principles invoked in equity jurisprudence; e.g. “equity treats as done what ought to be done.” -  Black’s Law Dictionary


Maxime ita dicta quia maxima ejus dignitas et certissima auctoritas, 
atque quod maximè omnibus probetur.
“A maxim is so called because its dignity is chiefest, and its authority most certain, 
and because universally approved by all.”  (Bouvier’s)

Reference sources: 
      A Dictionary of Law (William C. Anderson 1893)       
      Black’s Law Dictionary, Sixth Edition (Henry Campbell Black 1990).
      Bouvier’s Dictionary of Law, Sixth Edition (John Bouvier’s 1856)
      Selection of Legal Maxims (Herbert Broom 1845)
      Webster’s New World Dictionary, Second College Edition

      Commentaries by William Raymond:  


Ab antique. From old times. (See Black’s page 4)

Abatement. A reduction, decrease, or a diminution.  “…the termination of a suit, quashing of a nuisance, etc.”  Webster’s 

Abatement of action. Abatement is an entire overthrow or destruction of the entire suit so that it is quashed and ended… in certain states however this plea still exists to attack jurisdiction, or service of process, or to allege that a prior action between the same parties concerning the same subject matter is pending. (See Black’s page 4) 

Ab initio. From the beginning. (See Black’s 6)

Ab initio mundi. From the beginning of the world. (See Black’s page 6)

Ab initio mundiusque ad hodiernum diem. From the beginning of the world to this day. (See Black’s page 6)

Actio arbitraria. Action depending on the discretion of the judge. (See Black’s page 26)

Actio damni injuria. The name of a general class of actions for damages, including many species of suits for losses caused by wrongful or negligent acts. (equivalent to “action for damages” in civil venue jurisprudence). (See Black’s page 27)

Actio de dolo malo. An action of fraud;… to obtain the restitution of that which has been deprived, or, for compensation in damages. (See Black’s page 27)

Actio directa. A direct action; an action founded of strict law, and conducted according to fixed forms; an action founded on certain legal obligations which from their origin were accurately defined and recognized as actionable. (See Black’s page 27)

Actio ex contractu. In the civil and common law, an action of contracts; an action arising out of, or founded on, contract. (See Black’s page 27)

Actio delicto. In the civil and common law, an action of tort; an action arising out of fault, misconduct, or malfeasance. (See Black’s page 27)

Actio ex stipulatu. An action brought to enforce a stipulation. (See Black’s page 27)

Adjuvari quippe nos, non decipi, bebeficio oportet. We ought to be favored, not injured by that which is intended for our benefit. (See Black’s page 43)  

Ad nauseam. Over and over again as to sicken. 

Actus Dei nemini facit injuriam. The act of God is so treated by the law as to affect no one injuriously. (Broom’s)

Actus me invito factus non est meus actus. An act done by me, against my will, is not my act. (See Black’s page 36)

Ad recte docendum oportet, primum inquirere nomina, quia remum cognition a nominibus rerum dependet. In order to rightly comprehend a thing, inquire first into the names, for a right knowledge of things depends upon their names. (See Black’s page 50) This maxim underscores the importance of why one might prefer to be known by their Christian name rather than a legal name. 

Advocati ecclesiæ. Advocate of the church. (See Black’s page 55)

Advocatus est, ad quem pertinet jus advocationis alicujus ecclesiæ, ut ad ecclesiam, nominee proprio, non alieno, possit præsentare. A patron is he whom appertains the right of presentation to a church, in such a manner that he may present to such a church in his own name, and not in the name of another. (See Black’s page 55)

Affectio tua nomen imponitnoperi tuo. Your disposition (or motive, intention) gives name (or character) to your work or act. (See Black’s page 57)

Agentes et consentientes pari pœna plectentur. Acting and consenting parties are liable to the same punishment. (See Black’s page 64)

A l’impossible nul n’est tneu. No one is bound to do the impossible. (See Black’s page 73)

Alterum non lædere. Not to injure another. (See Black’s page 78)

Ambassador. (See Black’s 79)  II Corinthians 5:20 and Ephesians 6:20  

Ambiguis casibus simper præsumitur pro rege. In doubtful cases, the presumption always is in behalf of the crown. (See Black’s page 79)  (Note: There is no crown that is above our Sovereign, Lord and King, Jesus the Christ.)

Animus ad se omne jus ducit. It is to the intention that all law applies. Law always regards the intention. (See Black’s page 87)

Animus defamandi. The intention of defaming. (See Black’s page 88)

Animus furandi. Intent to steal. (See Black’s page 88)

Animus malus. Evil motive; the central element of the malice which justifies an award of punitive damages. (See Black’s page 88)

Apocrisarius. An ambassador. An officer whose duty was to carry to the emperor messages relating to ecclesiastical matters. (See Black’s page 95)

Argumentum ab auctoritate est fortissimum in lege. An argument from authority is the strongest in the law. “The book cases are the best proof of what the law is.” (See Black’s page 107)  There is no authority that is above our Sovereign, Lord and King, Jesus the Christ.

Arma in armatos sumere jura sinunt. The laws permit the taking up of arms against armed persons. (See Black’s page 108)

Audi alteram partem. Hear the other side; hear both sides. No man should be condemned unheard. (See Black’s page 131)

Augupia verforum sunt judíce indigna. A twisting of language is unworthy of a judge. (Bouvier’s)

Beneficium invito non datur. A privilege or benefit is not granted against one’s will. (See Black’s page 157)

Bona fides non patitur ut bis idem exigatur. Good faith does not allow us to demand twice the payment of the same thing. (See Black’s page 177)

Breaking the Close Notice.  Name of a species of notice posted over ecclesiastical lands which is different yet similar in nature and purpose to its civil law counterpart known commonly as a “no trespassing notice”.  See Black’s Law Dictionary, page 254, “Close. n. A portion of land.”

Causa ecclesiæ publicis æquiparatur; et summa est ratio quæ pro religione facit. The cause of the church is equal to public cause; and paramount is the reason which makes for religion. (See Black’s page 220)

Causæ ecclesiæ publicis causis æquiparantur.  The cause of the church is a public cause. (?)

Caveat actor. Let the doer, or actor, beware. (See Black’s page 222) 

Caveat emptor. Let the buyer beware. (See Black’s page 222)

Caveat emptor, qui ignorare non debuit quod jus alienum emit. Let a purchaser beware, who ought not to be ignorant that he is purchasing the rights of another.  Let a buyer beware; for he ought not to be ignorant of what they are when he buys the rights of another. (See Black’s page 222)

Christianitatis curia. The court Christian. Ecclesiastical court, as opposed to civil or lay tribunal. (See Black’s page 241)

Clam delinquentes magis puniuntur quam palam.  Those sinning secretly are punished more severely than those sinning openly. (See Black’s page 248)

Clerici non ponantur in officiis.  Clergymen should not be placed in offices; i.e. in secular offices. (See Black’s page 252)

Clericus non connumeretur in duabus ecclesiis.  A clergyman should not be appointed to two churches. (See Black’s page 253)

Clipped sovereignty. In the relations of the several states of the United States to other nations, the states have what is termed a clipped sovereignty.  Anderson v. Transandine Handelmaatschappij, Sup.,28 N.Y. 
S.2d 547, 552. (See Black’s page 254)  

Close. n. A portion of land. (See Black’s page 254)

Color of law. The appearance or semblance, without the substance, of legal right. Misuse of official power. (See Black’s page 265)

Concussio. In the civil law, the offense of extortion by threats of violence. (See Black’s page 292)

Concussion. In the civil law, the unlawful forcing of another by threats of violence to give something of value. It differs from robbery, in this: That is in robbery the thing is taken by force, while in concussion it is obtained by threatened violence. (See Black’s page 292)

Conjunctio mariti et feminæ est de jure naturæ. The union of husband and wife is of the law of nature. (See Black’s page 305)

Conscientia dicitur a con et scio, quasi scire cum deo. Conscience is called from con and scio, to know, as it were, with God. (See Black’s page 304)

Consentientes et agents pari pœna plectentur. They who consent to an act, and they who do it, shall be visited with equal punishment. (See Black’s page 305) 

Consensus facit legem. Consent makes the law. A contract is a law between the parties, which can acquire force only by consent. (Bouvier’s)

Consentientes et agentes pari poenâ plectentur. Those consenting and those perpetrating are embraced in the same punishment. (Black’s)

Consilii, non fraudulenti, nulla est obligatio. Advice, unless fraudulent, does not create an obligation. (Bouvier’s)

Consuetudo est altera lex. Custom is another law. (See Black’s page 315)

Consuetudo est altera lex. Custom is another law. (Bouvier’s) 

Consuetudo est optimus interpres legume. Custom is the best expounder of the law. (See Black’s page 315)  

Consuetudo est optimus interpres legum. Custom is the best expounder of the law. (Bouvier’s)

Consuetudo loci observanda est. The custom of a place is to be observed. (See Black’s page 315) 

Consuetudo neque injuriâ oriri neque tolli potest. Custom can neither arise from nor be taken away by injury. (See Black’s page 315)

Consuetudo praescripta et legitima vincit legem. A prescriptive and legitimate custom overcomes the law. (Bouvier’s)

Consuetudo vincit communem legem. Custom overrules common law. (See Black’s page 316)

Consuetudo volentes ducit, lex nolentes trahit. Custom leads the willing, law compels [drags] the unwilling. (See Black’s page 316)

Contestatio litis eget terminus contradictarios. An issue requires terms of contradiction.  To constitute an issue, there must be an affirmative on one side and a negative on the other. (See Black’s page 320) 

Contrà veritatem lex numquam aliquid permittit. The law never suffers anything contrary to truth. 2 Co. Inst. 252. But sometimes it allows a conclusive presumption in opposition to truth. (Bouvier’s)

Contractus legem ex conventione accipiunt. The agreement of the parties makes the law of the contract. (Bouvier’s)

Contractus ex turpi causa, vel contra bonos mores, nullus est. A contract founded on a base consideration, or against good morals, is null. (See Black’s page 326)

Contractus ex turpi causâ, vel contrà bonos mores nullus est. A contract founded on a base and unlawful consideration, or against good morals, is null. (Bouvier’s) 

Conventio vincit legem. The agreement of the parties overcomes or prevails against the law. (Bouvier’s)

Cujus est dare ejus est disponere. He who has a right to give, has the right to dispose of the gift. (Bouvier’s)

Cujus per errorem dati repetitio est, ejus consultò dati donatio est. Whoever pays by mistake what he does not owe, may recover it back; but he who pays, knowing he owes nothing; is presumed to give. (Bouvier’s)

Cujus est solum, ejus est usque ad caelum. He who owns the soil, owns up to the sky. (Bouvier’s)

Cujus est divisio alterius est electio. Which ever of two parties has the division, the other has the choice. (Bouvier’s)  

Cujusque rei potissima pars principium est. The principal part of everything is the beginning. (Bouvier’s)

Culpa tenet suos auctores. A fault finds its own. (Bouvier’s) 

Culpa est immiscere se rei ad se non pertinenti. It is a fault to meddle with what does not belong to or does not concern you. (Bouvier’s)

Culpa lata aequiparatur dolo. A concealed fault is equal to a deceit. (Bouvier’s) 

Custom and usage. A usage or practice of the people, which, by common adoption and acquiescence, and by long and unvarying habit, has become compulsory, and has acquired the force of law with respect to the place or subject-matter to which it relates. It results from a long series of actions, constantly repeated, which have, by such repetition and by uninterrupted acquiescence, acquired the force of a tacit and common consent. (See Black’s page 385)

De advisamento consilii nostril. With or by the advice of our council. (See Black’s page 398)

De ampliori gratia. Of more abundant or especial grace. (See Black’s page 399)

Debet quis juri subjacere ubi delinquit. One [every one] ought to be subject to the law [of the place] where he offended. (See Black’s page 402) 

Debile fundamentum fallit opus. A weak foundation frustrates [or renders vain] the work [built upon it].  When the foundation fails, all goes to the ground; as, where the cause of action fails, the action itself must of necessity fail. (See Black’s page 402) 

Debile fundamentum, fallit opus. Where there is a weak foundation, the work falls. (Bouvier’s) 

De bone momorie. Of good memory; of sound mind. (See Black’s page 402) 

De bonis asportatis. The action of trespass for taking personal property is technically called “trespass de bonis asportatis.” (See Black’s page 402)
 
De cætero. Hencefourth. (See Black’s page 405)

Deceptis non decipientibus, jura subveniunt. The laws help persons who are deceived, not those deceiving. (See Black’s page 406)

De claro die. By daylight. (See Black’s page 409)

De clauso fracto. Of close broken; of breach of close. (See Black’s page 409)

De common droit. Of common right; that is, by the common law. (See Black’s page 410)

De concilio curiæ. By the advice (or direction) of the court. (See Black’s page 410)

De consilio curiæ. By the advice (or direction) of the court. (See Black’s page 410)

Decreta conciliorum non ligant reges nostros. The decrees of councils bind not our kings. (See Black’s page 411)

De diversis regulis juris antiqui. Of divers rules of the ancient law. A celebrated title of the Digests, and the last in that collection. It consists of two hundred and eleven rules or maxims. (See Black’s page 413)  Also; the title chosen for this compilation of maxims, words and phrases.    

De dolo malo. Of or founded upon fraud. (See Black’s page 413)

De facto. In fact, in deed, actually, but not authorized.  Not legal or legitimate. By usurpation, without lawful title. (See Black’s page 416)    

Default. A failure. An omission of that which ought to be done. (See Black’s page 417)

Defect of parties. (See Black’s page 419)

De fide et officio judicis non recipitur quæstio, sed de scientia, sivi sit error juris, sive facti. Concerning the fidelity and official conduct of a judge, no question is [will be] entertained; but [only] concerning his knowledge, whether the error [committed] be of law or of fact. (See Black’s page 422)

De fidei læsione. Of breach of faith. (See Black’s page 422)

Dei gratia. By the grace of God. (See Black’s page 424)

De jure. Of right; legitimate; lawful; by right and just title. (See Black’s page 425)

De jure judices, de facto juratores respondent. The judges find the law, the jury the facts. (See Black’s page 425)

Delegata potestas non potest delegari. A delegated power cannot be delegated. (See Black’s page 426)

De liberto passagio. Writ of free passage. (See Black’s page 427)

De lunatico inquirendo. The name of a writ directed to the sheriff, directing him to inquire by “good and lawful men” whether the party charged is a lunatic or not. (See Black’s page 429)      

Depeculation. A robbing of the prince or commonwealth; an embezzling of the public treasure. (See Black’s page 436)

Derativa potestas non potest esse major primitiva. The power which is derived cannot be greater than that from which it is derived. (Bouvier’s)

Derogatur legi, cum pars detrahitur; abrogatur legi, cum prorsus tollitur. To derogate from a law is to take away part of it; to abrogate a law is to abolish it entirely. (See Black’s page 444)

De salva gardia. A writ of safeguard allowing strangers seeking their rights in English courts, and apprehending violence or injury to their persons or property. (See Black’s page 444)

De tempore cujus contrarium memoria hominum non existit. From time whereof the memory of man does not exist to the contrary. (See Black’s page 449)

De temps dont memorie ne court. From time whereof memory runneth not; time out of memory of man. (See Black’s page 450)

De verbo in verbum. Word for word. (See Black’s page 452)

Dies dominicus non est juridicus. Sunday is not a court day, or day for judicial proceedings, or legal purposes. (See Black’s page 455)

Dies dominicus non est juridicus. Sunday is not a day in law. (Bouvier’)

Discretio est scire per legem quid sit justum. Discretion consists in knowing what is just in law. (See Black’s page 466) 

Disparata non debent jungi. Unequal things ought not to be joined. (Bouvier’s)

Disseisor. One who puts another out of the possession of his lands wrongfully. (See Black’s page 472)

Disturbance of public or religious worship. Any acts or conduct which interferes with the peace and good order of an assembly of persons lawfully met together for religious exercises. (See Black’s page 477)

Divine laws. Those ascribed to God. (See Black’s page 479)

Divortium dicitur a divertendo, quia vir divertitur. Divorce is called from divertendo, because a man is divided from his wife. (See Black’s page 480)

Dolo malo pactumse non servaturum. An agreement induced by fraud cannot stand. (See Black’s page 483)

Dolosus versatur in generalibus. A person intending to deceive deals in general terms. (See Black’s page 483) 

Dolus auctoris non nocet successori. The fraud of a possessor does not prejudice the successor. (Bouvier’s)

Dolus et fraus nemini patrocinentur, (patrocinari) derent). Deceit and fraud shall excuse or benefit no man. (See Black’s page 483)

Dolus latet in generalibus. Fraud lurks in generalities. (See Black’s page 483)

Domicile. A person’s legal home. (See Black’s page 484)

Dominuim directum et utile. The complete and absolute dominion in property; the union of the title and the exclusive use. (See Black’s page 486) 

Dominus rex nullum habere potest parem, multo minus superiorem. The king cannot have an equal, much less a superior. (See Black’s page 487)

Domus sau cuique est tutissimum refugium. To every man his own house is his safest refuge. The house of every one is to him as his castle and fortress, as well as his defense against injury and violence as for his repose. A man’s dwelling house is his castle, not for his own personal protection merely, but also for the protection of his family and his property therein. (See Black’s page 487)  

Domus sua cuique est tutissimum refugium. Every man's house is his castle. (Bouvier’s)

Domus tutissimum cuique refugium atque receptaculum. The habitation of each one is an inviolable asylum for him. (Bouvier’s) 

Domus tutissimum cuique refugium atque receptaculum sit. A man’s house should be his safest refuge and shelter. The habitation of each one is an inviolable asylum for him. (See Black’s page 487)   

Donatio principis intelligitur sine præjudicio tertii. A gift of the prince is understood without prejudice to a third party. (See Black’s page 488)

Dormiunt aliquando leges, nunquam moriuntur. The laws sometimes sleep, never die. (See Black’s page 489)

Dormiunt aliquando leges, nunquam moriuntur. The laws sometimes sleep, but never die. (Bouvier’s) 

Droit common. The common law. (French?) (See Black’s page 496)

Droit coutumier. Common law. (French?) (See Black’s page 496)

Duas uxores eodem tempore habere non licet. It is not lawful to have two wives at the same time. (See Black’s page 498)

Ea est accipienda interpretation, qui vitio curet. That interpretation is to be received, which will not intend a wrong. (Bouvier’s)

Ecclesia. An assembly. A Christian assembly; a church. A place of religious worship. In the law, generally, the word is used to denote a place of religious worship, and sometimes a parsonage. (See Black’s page 511)

Ecclesia est domus mansionalis omnipotentis dei. The church is the mansionhouse of the Omnipotent God. (See Black’s page 511)

Ecclesia est infra ætatem et in custodia domini regis, qui tenetur jura et hæreditates ejusdem manu tenere et defendere.  The church is under age, and in the custody of the king, who is bound to uphold and defend its rights and inheritances. (See Black’s page 511)

Ecclesia fungitur vice minoris; meliorem conditionem suam facere potest, deteriorem nequaquam.  The church enjoys the privilege of a minor; it can make its own condition better, but not worse. (See Black’s page 512)    

Ecclesiæ magis favendum est quam personæ. The church is to be more favored than the persen (or an individual). (See Black’s page 512)  Note: Black’s  Fourth Edition says “parson” while the Sixth Edition says “persen”.

Ecclesiastical. Pertaining to anything belonging to or set apart for the church, as distinguished from “civil” or “secular”, with regard to the world. (See Black’s page 512) 

Ei incumbit probatio qui dicit, non qui negat. The burden of the proof lies upon him who affirms, not he who denies. (Bouvier’s)

Ens legis. A creature of the law; an artificial being, as contrasted with a natural person. (See Black’s page 530) 
 
Error de personâ. (Under error nominis). A mistake as to identity. (See Black’s page 544)

Error juris nocet. Error of law injures. A mistake of the law has an injurious effect; that is, the party committing it must suffer the consequences. (See Black’s page 544)

Error qui non resistitur approbatur. An error which is not resisted or opposed is approved. (See Black’s page 544)

Error qui non resistitur, approbatur. An error not resisted is approved. (Bouvier’s) 

Erubescit lex filios castigare parentes. The law blushes when children correct their parents. (See Black’s page 544)

Est autem vis legem simulans. Violence may also put on the mask of law. (See Black’s page 550)

Est autem vis legem simulans. Violence may also put on the mask of law. (Bouvier’s)

Et. And. (See Black’s page 552) 

Et al. And others or “and another”. (See Black’s page 553)

Et non. And not. It has the same force and effect as absque hoc, “without this”, and is occasionally used instead of the latter. (See Black’s page 553)  

Et seq. An abbreviation for et sequentes (masculine and feminine plural) or et sequentia (neuter), “and the following” (See Black’s page 553)  

Et sic. And so. (See Black’s page 554) 

Et sic fecit. And so he did. (See Black’s page 554)

Et sic pendet. And so it hangs.  A term used in the old reports to signify that a point was left undetermined. (See Black’s page 554)

Et ux. Abbreviation for et uxor meaning “and wife”. (See Black’s page 554)

Eundo, morando, et redeundo. Going, remaining and returning. A person who is privileged from arrest (as a witness, legislator, etc.) is generally so privileged eundo, morando, ey redeundo; that is, on his way to the place where his duties are to be performed, while he remains there, and on his return journey. (See Black’s page 554)  

Ex dolo malo non oritur actio.  Out of fraud no action arises; fraud never gives a right of action.  No court will lend its aid to a man who founds his cause of action upon an immoral or illegal act. (See Black’s page 567) 

Ex dolo malo non oritur action. Out of fraud no action arises. (Bouvier’s) 

Ex dolo malo non oritur action. Out of fraud no action arises. (Broom's)

Exile.  Banishment; the person banished. As a noun, expulsion from country; expatriation. As a verb, to expel from country; to banish. (See Black’s page 574)

Exilium.  In old English law: (1) Exile; banishment from one’s country.  (2) Driving away; despoiling.  The name of a species of waste, which consisted in driving away tenants or vassals from the estate; as by demolishing buildings, and so compelling the tenants to leave, or by enfranchising the bond-servants, and unlawfully turning them out of the tenements. (See Black’s page 574)

Exilium est patriæ privatio, natalis soli mutatio, legum nativarum amissio. Exile is a privation of country, a change or natal soil, a loss of native laws. (See Black’s page 574)    

Ex malificio non oritur contractus. A contract cannot arise out of an act radically vicious and illegal. (See Black’s page 575)

Ex malificio non oritur contractus. A contract cannot arise out of an act radically wrong and illegal. (Bouvier’s) 

Ex malificio non oritur contractus. A contract cannot arise out of an act radically wrong and illegal. (Broom's) 

Ex multitudine signorum, colligitur identitas vera. From the great number of signs true identity may be ascertained. (Bouvier’s) 

Ex parte. On one side only; by or for one party; done for, in behalf of, or on the application of, one party only. (See Black’s page 576)  

Ex præcedentibus et consequentibus optima fit interpretation. The best interpretation is made from the context. (See Black’s page 580)

Expressum facit cessare. That which is expressed makes that which is implied to cease [that is, supersedes it, or controls its effect]. (See Black’s page 581) 

Extra legem positus est civiliter mortuus. He who is placed out of law is civilly dead. (See Black’s page 586)

Extra legem positus est civiliter mortuus. One out of the pale of the law, (an outlaw,) is civilly dead. (Bouvier’s)

Extraneus est subditus qui extra terram, i.e., potestatem regis natus est. A foreigner is a subject who is born out of the territory, i.e., government of the king. (See Black’s page 586)

Extra territorium jus dicenti impune non paretur. One who exercises jurisdiction out of his territory is not obeyed with impunity. He who exercises judicial authority beyond his proper limits cannot be obeyed with safety. (See Black’s page 588)  

Ex turpi cause non oritur actio. Out of a base [illegal, or immoral] consideration, an action does [can] not 
arise. (See Black’s page 589)   

Ex turpi causa non oritur actio. No action arises out of an immoral consideration. (Bouvier’s)

Ex turpi contractu non oritur actio. No action arises on an immoral contract. (Bouvier’s)

Facultas probationum non est augustanda. The power of proofs [right of offering or giving testimony] is not to be narrowed. (See Black’s page 593) 

Factum à judice quod ad ujus officium non spectat, non ratum est. An act of a judge which does not relate to his office, is of no force. (Bouvier’s)

Failure of record. Failure of the defendant to produce a record which he has alleged and relied on in his plea. (See Black’s page 595)  

Fiat justitia, ruat cœlum. Let right be done, though the heavens should fall. (See Black’s page 623) 

Fiat justitia ruat caelum. Let justice be done, though the heavens should fall. (Bouvier’s)

Fictio cedit veritati. Fictio juris non est ubi veritas. Fiction yields to truth. Where truth is, fiction of law exists not. (See Black’s page 623)    

Fictio est contra veritatem, sed pro veritate habetur. Fiction is against the truth, but it is to have truth. (Bouvier’s)

Fictio juris non est ubi veritas. Where truth is, fiction of law does nor exist. (See Black’s page 623)    

Fictio legis inique operatur alicui damnum vel injuriam. A legal fiction does not properly work loss or injury. Fiction of law is wrongful if it works loss or injury to anyone. (See Black’s page 623)   

Flag, law of. (See Black’s page 638)

Flumina et protus publica sunt, ideoque jus piscandi omnibus commune est. Rivers and ports are public, therefore the right of fishing there is common to all. (Bouvier’s)

Forstellarius est pauperum depressor, et totius communitatis et patriae publicus inimicus. A forestaller is an oppressor of the poor, and a public enemy to the whole community and the country. (Bouvier’s)

Forum ecclesiasticum. An ecclesiastical court. The spiritual jurisdiction, as distinguished from secular. (See Black’s page 655) 

Forum seculare A secular, as distinguished from an ecclesiastical or spiritual, court. (See Black’s page 655) 

Fraus est celare fraudem. It is a fraud to conceal a fraud. (Black’s page 663)

Fraus est celare fraudem. It is a fraud to conceal a fraud. (Bouvier’s) 

Fraus et dolus nemini patrocianari debent. Fraud and deceit should excuse no man. (Bouvier’s)

Frustrà est potentia quae numcquam venit in actum. The power which never comes to be exercised is vain. (Bouvier’s)

Frustrà probatur quod probatum non relevat. It is vain to prove that which if proved would not aid the matter in question. (Bouvier’s) 

Glossa viperina est quæ corrodit viscera textus. It is a poisonous gloss which corrupts the essence of the text. (See Black’s page 690)

Governmental immunity. (See Black’s page 696)

Government de jure. “A government of right; the true and lawful government; a government established according to the constitution of the nation, and lawfully entitled to recognition and supremacy and the administration of the nation, but which is actually cut off from power or control. A government deemed lawful, or deemed rightful or just, which, nevertheless, has been supplanted or displaced; that is to say, which receives not presently (although is received formerly) habitual obedience from the bulk of the community.”  (See Black’s page 697)

Grammatica falsa non vitiate chartam. False grammar does not vitiate a deed. (See Black’s page 698)

Gravius est divinam quam temporalem lædere majestatem. It is more serious to hurt divine than temporal majesty. (701)

Habeas corpus. You have the body. (See Black’s page 709)

Haeres est alter ispe, et filius est pars patris. An heir is another self, and a son is a part of the father. (Bouvier’s)

Haeres haeredis mei est meus haeres. The heir of my heir is my heir. (Bouvier’s)

Homo vocabulum est naturæ; persona juris civilis.  Man (homo) is a term of nature; person (persona) of civil law. (See Black’s page 736)

Idem est facere, et non prohibere cum possis; et qui non prohibit, cum prohibere possit, in culpa est (aut jubet). To commit, and not to prohibit when in your power, is the same thing; and he who does not prohibit when he can prohibit is in fault, or does the same as ordering it to be done. (See Black’s page 744)  

Idem est scire aut scire debere aut potuisse. To be bound to know or to be able to know is the same as to know. (See Black’s page 744)

Identitas vere colligitur ex multitudine signorum. True identity is collected from a multitude of signs. (See Black’s page 745)

Identitas vere colligitur ex multitudine signorum. True identity is collected from a number of signs. (Bouvier’s )   

Id possumus quod de jure possumus. We may do only that which by law we are allowed to do. (See Black’s page 746)

Id quod nostrum est, sine facto nostro ad alium transferi non potest. That which is ours cannot be transferred to another without our act. (See Black’s page 746)

Id quod nostrum est, sine facto nostro ad alium transferi non potest. What belongs to us cannot be transferred to another without our consent. (Bouvier’s)

In exilium.  In exile. See Black’s page 574 - Exilium)

In exitu.  In issue.  De materia in exitu, of the matter in issue. (See Black’s page 777)

In extenso.  In extension; at full length; from beginning to end, leaving out nothing. (See Black’s page 777)

In facie ecclesiæ.  In the face of the church.  A term applied in the law of England to marriages, which are required to be solemnized in a parish church or public chapel, unless by dispensation or license. (See Black’s page 777)

Infinitum in jure reprobatur. That which is infinite or endless is reprehensible in law. (Bouvier’s)

In maleficio ratihabitio mandato comparatur. He who ratifies a bad action is considered as having ordered it. (Bouvier’s)

In maxima potentia minima licentia.  In the greatest power there is the least freedom. (See Black’s page 788) 

In maximâ potentiâ minima licentia.  In the greater power is included the smaller license. Bouvier’s) 

In præsentia majoris potestatis, minor potestas cessat.  In the presence of the superior power, the minor power ceases. (Bouvier’s)

In præsentia majoris potestatis, minor potestas cessat. In the presence of the superior power, the inferior power ceases. The less authority is merged in the greater.  (See Black’s page 792)    

Inter arma silent leges. In time of war the laws are silent. (See Black’s page 811)

Invito beneficium non datur. A benefit is not conferred on one who is unwilling to receive it; that is to say, one can be compelled to accept a benefit. (See Black’s page 827)

Invito beneficium non datur. No one is obligated to accept a benefit against his consent. (Bouvier’s)  

Judex bonus nihil ex arbitrio suo faciat, nec proposito domesticæ voluntatis, sed juxta leges et jura pronunciet. A good judge should do nothing of his own arbitrary will, nor on the dictate of his personal inclination, but should decide according to law and justice. (See Black’s page 840)

Judici officium suum excedenti non paretur. A judge exceeding his office (or jurisdiction) is not to be obeyed. (See Black’s page 850)

Judici officium suum excedenti non paretur. To a judge who exceeds his office or jurisdiction no obedience is due. (Bouvier’s)

Judicium a non suo judice datum nullius est momenti. A judgment given by one who is not the proper judge is of no force. (See Black’s page 850)

Judicium a non suo judice datum nullius est momenti. A judgment given by an improper judge is of no moment. (Bouvire’s)

Judicium est quasi juris dictum. Judgment is, as it were, a declaration of war. (See Black’s page 850)

Jurare est Deum in testem vocare, et est actus divini cultus. To swear is to call God to witness, and is an act of religion. (852) and (Bouvier’s)  

Jure divino. By divine right. (See Black’s page 852) 

Jura ecclesiæ. In right of the church. (See Black’s page 852)

Jure gentium. By the law of nations. (See Black’s page 852)

Jure uxoris. In the right of a wife. (See Black’s page 852)

Juris ignorantia est cum jus nostrum ignoramus. It is ignorance of the law when we do not know our own rights. (See Black’s page 854)

Jurisprudentia est divinarum atque humanarum rerum notitia, justi scientia. Jurisprudence is the knowledge of things divine and human, the science of what is right and what is wrong. (See Black’s page 855)

Jus gentium. The law of nations. (See Black’s page 859)

Jus naturale. The natural law, or law of nature. (861)

Jus non habenti tute non paretur.   One who has no right cannot be safely obeyed. (See Black’s page 861)

Jus non habenti tute non paretur. It is safe not to obey him who has no right. (Bouvier’s) 

Jus privatum. Private law; the law regulating the rights, conduct, and affairs of individuals, as distinguished from “public law” or “jus publicum” (See Black’s page 862)     

Jus publicum. Public law, or the law relating to the constitution and functions of government and its officers and the administration of criminal justice. (See Black’s page 826)

Jus publicum privatorum pactis mutari non potest. A public law or right cannot be altered by the agreements of private persons. (See Black’s page 862)
 
Jus recuperandi. The right of recovering [lands]. (See Black’s page 862)

Justitia est virtus excellens et altissimo complacens. Justice is an excellent virtue and pleasing to the most high. (See Black’s page 866)
 
Justitia est virtus excellens et Altissimo complacens. Justice is an excellent virtue and pleasing to the Most high. (Bouvier’s)

Jus venandi et piscandi. The right of hunting and fishing. (See Black’s page 867) 

Lata culpa dolo æquiparantur. Gross negligence is equivalent to fraud. (See Black’s page 883)

Lata culpa dolo aequiparatur. Gross negligence is equal to fraud. (Bouvier’s)

Laus Deo.  Praise be to God.

Law of nations. See jus gentium. (See Black’s page 859)
 
Laying the venue. (See Black’s page 886)

Le contrat fait la loi. The contract makes the law. (See Black’s page 891)

Legal detriment. (See Black’s page 893)

Legal entity. (See Black’s page 893)

Legal fiction. (See Black’s page 894)

Legalis homo. (See Black’s page 894)  

Legal name. (See Black’s page 896)

Legal notice. (See Black’s page 896)

Legatos violare contra jus gentium est. It is contrary to the law of nations to injure ambassadors. (See Black’s page 898)

Legatos violare contra jus gentium est. It is contrary to the law of nations to violate the rights of ambassadors. (Bouvier’s)

Legatus regis vice fungitur a quo destinatur, et honorandus est sicut ille cujus vicem gerit. An ambassador fills the place of the king by whom he is sent, and is to be honored as he is whose place he fills. (See Black’s page 898)    

Leges humanæ nascuntur, vivunt, et moriuntur. Human laws are born, live, and die. (See Black’s page 899) and (Bouvier’s)

Leges naturæ perfectissimæ sunt et immutabiles; humani vero juris condition semper in infinitum decurrit, et nihil est eo quod perpetuo stare posit. Leges humanæ nascuntut, vivunt, moriuntur. The law of nature are most perfect and immutable; but the condition of human law is an unending succession, and there is nothing in it which can continue perpetually. Human laws are born, live, and die. (See Black’s page 899)

Leges vigilantibus, non dormientibus, subveniunt. The laws aid the vigilant, not the negligent. (See Black’s page 899) 

Legibus sumptis desinentibus, lege natureae, utendum est. When laws imposed by the state fail, we must act by the laws of nature. (See Black’s page 899) 

Legitime imperanti parere necesse est. One lawfully commanding must be obeyed. (See Black’s page 901)

Legitime imperanti parere necesse est. One who commands lawfully must be obeyed. (Bovier’s)

Le ley de dieu et ley de terre sont tout un; et l’un et l’autre preferre et favour le common et publique bien del terre. The law of God and the law of the land are all one; and both preserve and favor the common and public good of the land. (See Black’s page 901) 

Lex non a regeest violanda. The law is not to be violated by the king. (See Black’s page 912)

Lex non scripta. The unwritten or common law. The law non written, (Hebrews 8:10) (See Black’s page 912)
 
Lex rejicit superflua, pugnantia, incongrua. The law rejects superfluous, contradictory, and incongruous things. (See Black’s page 913)

Lex vigilantibus, non dormientibus, subvenit. Law assists the wakeful, not the sleeping. (See Black’s page 913)

Ligeantai est quasi legis essential; est vinculum fidei. Allegiance is, as it were, the essence of law; it is the chain of faith. (See Black’s page 925)  

Locus Sigili. In place of the seal; the place occupied by the seal of written instruments. Usually abbreviated to “L.S.” on documents in place of a seal. (See Black’s page 941) 

Longum tempus et longus usus qui excedit memoria hominum sufficit pro jure. Long time and long use, exceeding the memory of men, suffices for right. (See Black’s page 943) 

Longum tempus et longus usus qui excedit memoria hominum sufficit pro jure. Long time and long use, exceeding the memory of man, suffices for right. (Bouvier’s)

Lubricum linguæ non facile trahendum est in pœnam. A slip of the tongue ought not lightly to be subjected to punishment. (See Black’s page 948) 

Magna negligentia culpa est; magna culpa dolus est. Gross negligence is fault; gross fault is fraud. (See Black’s page 952)

Maledicta est exposition quæ corrumpit textum. That is a cursed interpretation which corrupts the text. (See Black’s page 956)

Maleficia non debent remanere impunita; et impunitas continuum affectum tribuit delinquenti. Evil deeds ought not to remain unpunished; and impunity affords continual incitement to the delinquent. (See Black’s page 956)

Malicious abuse of legal process. (See Black’s page 958)

Malicious use of process. (See Black’s page 958)

Man. (See Black’s page 961)

Mandamus. (See Black’s page 961)

Maris et faeminae conjunctio est de jure naturae. The union of husband and wife is founded on the law of nature. (Bouvier’s)

Marriage ceremony. (See Black’s page 973) 

Marriage certificate. (See Black’s page 973

Marriage license. (See Black’s page 973)

Marriage per verba de praesenti. (See Black’s page 973)

Matrimonia debent esse libera. Marriages ought to be free. (Black’s page 978)

Matrimonia debent esse libera. Marriages ought to be free. (Bouvier’s)

Matrix ecclesia. A mother church. (See Black’s page 978)

Maxim. Maxims are but attempted general statements of rules of law and law only to the extent of application in adjudicated cases.  A principle of law universally admitted as being a correct statement of the law, or as agreeable to reason. Principles invoked in equity jurisprudence; e.g. “equity treats as done what ought to be done.” (See Black’s page 979)

Maxime ita dicta quia maxima ejus dignitas et certissima auctoritas, atque quod maximè omnibus probetur. A maxim is so called because its dignity is chiefest, and its authority most certain, and because universally approved by all. (Bouvier’s)

Maximè paci sunt contraria, vis et tnjuria. The greatest enemies to peace are force and wrong. (Bouvier’s)

Maximus erroris populus magister. The people is the greatest master of error. (See Black’s page 979)

Melius est omnia mala pati quam malo consentire. It is better to suffer every ill than to consent to ill. (See Black’s page 983)

Melius est omnia mala pati quam malo concentire. It is better to suffer every wrong or ill, than to consent to it. (Bouvier’s)

Melius est petere fontes quam sectari rivulos. It is better to go to the fountain head than to follow little streamlets. (See Black’s page 983)

Melius est recurrere quam malo currere. It is better than to run back than to run badly; it is better to retrace one’s steps than to proceed improperly. (See Black’s page 983)

Minimum contacts. (See Black’s page 995)

Ministerial duty. (See Black’s page 996)

Ministerial officer. (See Black’s page 996)

Misera est servitus, ubi jus est vagum aut incertum. It is a miserable slavery where the law is vague or uncertain. (Bouvier’s) 

Modica circumstantia facti jus mutat. The smallest circumstance may change the law. (Bouvier’s)

Modus et conventio vincunt legem. Manner and agreement overrule the law. (Bouvier’s)

Multitudo errantium non parit errori patrocinium. The multitude of those who err furnishes no countenance or excuse for error. It is no excuse for error that it is entertained by numbers. (See Black’s page 1016)

Multitudo errantium non parit errori patrocinium. The multitude of those who err is no excuse for error. (Bouvier’s)

Multitudo imperitorum perdit curiam. A great number of unskillful practitioners ruins a court. (See Black’s page 1016)

Multitudo imperitorum perdit curiam. A multitude of ignorant practitioners destroys a court. (Bouvier’s)

Naturale est quidlibet dissolvi eo modo quo ligature. It is natural for a thing to be unbound in the same way in which it was bound. (See Black’s page 1026)

Natural law. (See Black’s page 1026)

Natural rights. (See Black’s page 1026)

Nec curia deficeret in justitia exhibenda. Nor should the court be deficient in showing justice. (See Black’s page 1029)

Nec tempus nec locus occurrit regi. Neither time nor place affects the king. (See Black’s page 1031)

Nec veniam, læso numine, casus habet. Where the Divinity is insulted the case is unpardonable. (See Black’s page 1031)

Nefas. That which is against right or the divine law. A wicked or impious thing or act. (See Black’s page 1031)

Negatio destruit negationem, et ambæ faciunt affirmantionem. A negative destroys a negative, and both make an affirmative. (See Black’s page 1031)

Negatio duplex est affirmatio. A double negative is an affirmative. (See Black’s page 1031)   

Negligence in law. “Actionable negligence” or “negligence in law” grows out of nonobservance of a duty prescribed by law. (See Black’s page 1035)

Negligentia simper habet infortunium comitem. Negligence always has misfortune for a companion. (See Black’s page 1035)

Neminem lædit qui jure suo utitur. He who stands on his own rights injures no one. (See Black’s page 1036)

Nemo cogitur rem suam vendere, etiam justo pretio. No man is compelled to sell his own property, even for a just price. (See Black’s page 1037)

Nemo debet esse judex in propria causa. No man ought to be a judge in his own cause. (See Black’s page 1037)

Nemo debet in communione invitus teneri. No one should be retained in a partnership against his will. (See Black’s page 1037) 

Nemo de domo sua extrahi potest. No one can be dragged out of his own house. (In other words, every man’s house is his castle.) (See Black’s page 1037)

Nemo est supra leges. No one is above the law. (See Black’s page 1038)

Nemo jus sibi dicere potest. No one can declare the law for himself. No one is entitled to take the law into his own hands. (See Black’s page 1038) 

Nemo militans deo implicetur secularibus negotiis. No man who is warring for [in the service of] God should be involved in secular matters.  (A principle of the old law that men of religion were not bound to go in person with the king to war.) (See Black’s page 1038).  II Timothy 2:4 “No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.”   

Nemo Patriam in qua natus est exuere nec Ligeatiæ Debitum ejurare posit. A man cannot abjure his native country non the allegiance which he owes to his sovereign. (Broom’s) 

Nemo potest esse dominus et hæres. No man can be both owner and heir. (See Black’s page 1038)

Nemo potest nisi quod de jure potest. No one is able to do a thing, unless he can do it lawfully. (See Black’s page 1038)

Nemo præsumitur esse immemor suæ æternæ salutis, et maxime in articulo mortis. No one is presumed to be forgetful of his own eternal welfare, and particularly at the point of death. (See Black’s page 1039)

Nemo praesumitur esse immemor suae aeternae salutis, et maximè in articulo mortis. No man is presumed to be forgetful of his eternal welfare, and particularly at the point of death. (Bouvier’s)

Nemo sibi esse judex vel suis jus dicere debet. No man ought to be his own judge, or to administer justice in cases where his relatives are concerned. (See Black’s page 1039)

Nemo unquam judicet in se. No one can ever be a judge in his own cause. (See Black’s page 1039)

Nemo unquam vir magnus fuit, sine aliquot divino afflatu. No one was ever a great man without some divine inspiration. (See Black’s page 1039)

Nihil in lege intolerabilius est, eandem rem diverso jure censeri. Nothing in law is more intolerable than to apply the law differently to the same cases. (Bouvier’s)

Nihil tam naturale est, quam eo genere quidque dissolvere, quo colligatum est; ideo verborum obligatio verbis tollitur; nudi consensus obligatio contrario consensu dissolvitur.  Nothing is so natural as to dissolve anything in the same way in which it was bound together; therefore the obligation of words is taken away by words; the obligation of mere consent is dissolved by the contrary consent. (See Black’s page 1046)   

Nil ligatum. Nothing bound; that is, no obligation has been incurred. (See Black’s page 1046)

Nom de guerre. [Fr., lit., a war name] (See Webster’s)  

Nomen est quasi rei notamen. A name is, as it were, the note of a thing. (Bouvier’s)

Nomina sunt notae rerum. Names are the notes of things. (Bouvier’s)

Nomina sunt symbola rerum. Names are the symbols of things. (Bouvier’s)

Non aliter a significantione verborum recede oportetquam cum manifestum est, aliud sensisse testatorem. We must never depart from the significance of words, unless it is evident that they are not conformable to the will of the testator. (See Black’s page 1051) 

Non consentit qui errat. He who mistakes does not consent. (See Black’s page 1052)

Non deberet alii nocere quod inter alios actum esset. No one ought to be injured by that which has taken place between other parties. (See Black’s page 1052)

Non debet alii nocere, quod inter alois actum est. A person ought not to be prejudiced by what has been done between others. (See Black’s page 1052)  

Non debet dici tendere in præjudicium ecclesiasticæ liberatatis quod pro rege et republica necessarium videtur. That which seems necessary for the king and the state ought not to be said to tend to the prejudice of spiritual liberty. (See Black’s page 1052) 

Non efficit affectus nisi sequatur effectus.  The intention amounts to nothing unless the effect follows. (See Black’s page 1053)

Non erit alia lex Romæ, alia Athænis; alia nunc, alia posthac; sed et omnes gentes, et omni tempore, una lex, et sempiterna, et immortalis continebit. There will not be one law at Rome, another at Athens; one law now, another hereafter; but one eternal and immortal law shall bind together all nations throughout all time. (See Black’s page 1053)

Non est arctius vinculum inter hominess quam jusjurandum. There is no closer [or firmer] bond between men than an oath. (See Black’s page 1052)

Non hæc in fœdere veni. I did not agree to these terms. (See Black’s page 1054)

Non jus ex regula, sed regula ex jure. The law does not arise from the rule (or maxim), but the rule from the law. (See Black’s page 1055)

Non liquet. It is not clear. (See Black’s page 1055)  

Non obstante. Notwithstanding. (See Black’s page 1055)

Non pertinet ad judicem secularem cognoscere de iis quæ sunt mere spiritualia annexa. It belongs not to the secular judge to take cognizance of things which are merely spiritual. (See Black’s page 1056)   

Non refert verbis an factis fit revocatio. It matters not whether a revocation is made by words or deeds. (See Black’s page 1057)

Non sum informatus. I am not informed; I have not been instructed. (See Black’s page 1058)

Non valet impedimentum quod de jure non sortitur effectum. An impediment which does not derive its effect from law is of no force. (See Black’s page 1059)

Non videntur qui errant consentire. They are not considered to consent who commit a mistake. (See Black’s page 1059) 

Novatio non præsumitur. A novation is not presumed. (See Black’s page 1064)

Novatio non praesumitur. A novation is not presumed. (Bovier’s)

Novation. A new contract. (See Black’s page 1064)

Nulle terre sans seigneur. No land without a lord. (See Black’s page 1067)

Nullum crimen majus est inobedientia. No crime is greater than disobedience. (Applied to the refusal of an officer to return a writ.) (See Black’s page 1068)

Nullum tempus aut locus occurit regi. No time or place affects the king. (See Black’s page 1068)

Nullum tempus occurrit regi. Time does not run against the king. (see Black’s page 1068)

Nunquam res humanæ prospere succedunt ubi negliguntur divinæ. Human things never prosper where divine things are neglected. (See Black’s page 1070)

Nuptias non concubitus sed consenus facit. Not cohabitation but consent makes the marriage. (See Black’s page 1070)

Nuptias non concubitas, sed consensus facit. Cohabitation does not make the marriage, it is the consent of the parties. (Bouvier’s)

Oblationes dicuntur quæcunque a piis fidelibusque christianis offeruntur deo et ecclesiæ, sive res solidæ sive mobiles. Those things are called “obligations” which are offered to God and to the Church by pious and faithful Christians, whether they are movable or immovable. (See Black’s page 1073)

Obtemperandum est consuetudini rationabili tanquam legi. A reasonable custom is to be obeyed as a law. (See Black’s page 1078)

Occupantis fiunt derelicta. Things abandoned become the property of the (first) occupant. (See Black’s page 1079)

Oderunt peccare boni, virtutis amore; oderunt peccare mali, formidine pœnæ. Good men hate to sin through love of virtue; bad men, through fear of punishment. (See Black’s page 1080)

Omne sacramentum debet esse de certa scientia. Every oath ought to be of certain knowledge. (See Black’s page 1086)

Omnes homines aut liberi sunt aut servi. All men are freemen or slaves. (See Black’s page 1096)

Omnes licentiam habere his quæ pro se indulta sunt, renunciare. [It is a rule of the ancient law that] all persons shall have liberty to renounce those privileges which have been conferred for their benefit. (See Black’s page 1086)

Omnia præsumuntur legitime facta donec probetur in contrarium. All things are presumed to be lawfully done, until proof be made to the contrary. (See Black’s page 1087) 

Omnia præsumuntur rite et solemniter esse acta donec probetur in contrarium. All things are presumed to have been rightly and duly performed until it is proved to the contrary. (See Black’s page 1087) 

Omnis definitio in jura civili periculosa est, parum est enim ut non subverti posit. Every definition in the civil law is dangerous, for there is very little that cannot be overthrown (There is no rule in the civil law which is not liable to some exception; and the least difference in the facts of the case renders its application useless.) (See Black’s page 1087)

Omnis definitio in lege periculosa. All definition in law is hazardous. (See Black’s page 1087)

Omnis licentiam haber his quæ pro se indulta sunt, renunciars. All have liberty to renounce those things which have been established in their favor. (Bouvier’s)

Omnis persona est homo, sed non vicissim.  Every person is a man, but not every man a person. (See Black’s page 1088)

Onus probandi. Burden of proving; the burden of proof. (See Black’s page 1089)

Optima est legis interpres consuetudo. Custom is the best interpreter of the law. (See Black’s page 1093)

Optimus interpres rerum usus. Use or usage is the best interpreter of things. (See Black’s page 1094)

Optimus legume interpres consuetude. Custom is the best interpreter of the laws. (See Black’s page 1094)

Opus novum. A new work. (See Black’s page 1095)

Organic law. The fundamental law, or constitution. (See Black’s page 1099)

Original. Primitive; first in order; bearing its own authority, and not deriving its authority from an outside source; as original jurisdiction, original writ, etc. (See Black’s page 1099)                  

Origine propria neminem posse voluntate sua eximi manifestum est. It is evident that no one is able of his own pleasure, to do away with his proper origin. (See Black’s page 1100) 
      
Origo rei inspici debet.  The origin of a thing ought to be regarded. (See Black’s page 1100)

Pacta quæ turpem causam continent non sunt observanda. Agreements founded upon immoral considerations are not to be observed. (See Black’s page 1109) 

Pactis privatorum juri publico non derogatur. Private contracts do not derogate from public law. (See Black’s page 1109)

Paria copulantur paraibus. Like things unite with like. (See Black’s page 1115)

Parish church. (See Black’s page 1115)

Parson. The rector of a church; one that has full possession of all the rights of a parochial church. (See Black’s page 1117)

Participes plures sunt quasi unum corpus in eo quod unum jus habent, et oportet quod corpus sit integrum, et quod in nulla parte sit defectus. Many parceners are as one body, inasmuch as they have one right, and it is necessary that the body be perfect, and that there be defect in no part. (See Black’s page 1119)

Person. (See Black’s page 1142)

Persona designata. (See Black’s page 1143)

Persona ecclesiæ. (See Black’s page 1143)     

Persona est homo cum statu quodam consideratus. A person is a man considered with reference to a certain status. (See Black’s page 1143)  

Persona non standi in judicio. Without standing or right to bring an action in law. (?)

Præmunire, imperium in imperio. “Præmunire being the introduction of a foreign power into the kingdom, and creating “imperim in imperio” by paying obedience to it. (See “Præmunire” in Black’s page 1173)  

Præsentia corporis  tollit errorem nominis; veritas nominis tollit errorem demonstrationis. The presence of the body cures error in the name; the truth of the name cures an error of description. (See Black’s page 1174)    

Prætextu liciti non debet admitti illicitum. Under pretext of legality, what is illegal ought not to be admitted. (See Black’s page 1175)

Prætextu liciti non debet admitti illicitum. Under pretext of legality, what is illegal ought not to be admitted. (Bouvier’s)

Presumption. (See Black’s page 1185)

Prima facie. At first sight. (See Black’s page 1189)  

Prior tempore potior jura. He who is first in time is preferred in right. (See Black’s page 1194)

Prior tempore, prior jure. Earlier in time, stronger in right. First in time, first in right. Priority gives precedence. (Anderson’s) 

Privilegium est beneficium personale, et extinguitur cum persona. A privilege is a personal benefit, and dies with the person. (See Black’s page 1199)

Pro bono publico. For the public good. (See Black’s page 1203)

Probus et legalis homo. A good and lawful man. (See Black’s page 1203)

Protectio trahit subjectionem, et subjection protectionem. Protection drawls with it subjection, and subjection protection. The protection of an individual by government is on condition of his submission to the law, and such submission on the other hand entitles the individual to the protection of the government. (See Black’s page 1223)

Provisional government. One temporality established in anticipation of and to exist and continue until another (more regular or more permanent) shall be organized and instated in its stead. (See Black’s page 1224)

Public. (See Black’s page 1227)

Quando jus domini regis et subditi concurrant jus regis præferri debet. When the right of king and of subject concur, the kings right should be preferred. (See Black’s page 1242)  

Quando jus domini regis et subditi concurrant jus regis præferri debet. When the right of the sovereign and of the subject conflict, the right of the sovereign ought to be preferred. (Bouvier’s)  

Quando jus domini regis et subditi concurrant jus regis præferri debet. Where the title of the king and the title of a common person concur, the king’s title shall be preferred. (Broom’s 
 
Quæ ab initio non valent, ex post facto convalescere non possunt. Things invalid from the beginning cannot be made valid by subsequent act. (See Black’s page 1238)

Quæ in curia regis acta sunt rite agi præsumuntur. Things done in the king’s court are presumed to be rightly done. (See Black’s page 1239) 

Quæ legi communi derogant non sunt trahenda in exemplum. Things derogatory to the common law are not to be drawn into precedent. (See Black’s page 1239)

Quare clausum fregit. Wherefore he broke the close. (See Black’s page 1244)

Quasi. As if; almost as it were. (See Black’s page 1245)

Quia datum est nobis intelligi.  Because it is given to us to understand. (formal words in old writs) (See Black’s page 1247)

Quia erronice emanavit.  Because it issued erroneously, or through mistake.  (term in old English practice) (See Black’s page 1247)

Quicquid acquiritur servo acquiritur domino.  Whatever is acquired by the servant is acquired for the master.  Whatever rights are acquired by an agent are acquired for his principal. (See Black’s page 1248)  

Quicpuid acquiritur servo, acquiritur domino. Whatever is acquired by the servant, is acquired for the master. (Bouvier’s)

Qui in utero est pro jam nato habetur, quoties de ejus commodo quæritur.  He who is in the womb is held as already born, whenever a question arises for his benefit. (See Black’s page 1249)

Qui in utero est, pro jam nato habetur quoties de ejus commodo quaeritur. He who is in the womb, is considered as born, whenever it is for his benefit.

Quilibet potest renunciare juri pro se introducto. Every one may renounce or relinquish a right introduced for his own benefit. (See Black’s page 1249)

Qui male agit odit lucem. He who acts badly hates the light. (See Black’s page 1249)

Qui mandat ipse fecissi videtur. He who commands [a thing to be done] is held to have done it himself. (See Black’s page 1249)  

Qui non imporbat, approbat. He who does not blame, approves. (See Black’s page 1250)

Qui non libere veritatem pronuciat proditor est veritatis. He who does no freely speak the truth is a betrayer of the truth. (See Black’s page 1250)

Qui non negat fatetur. He who does not deny, admits. (a well know rule of pleading) (See Black’s page 1250) 

Qui non obstat quod obstare potest, facere videtur. He who does not prevent [a thing] which he can prevent, is considered to do [as doing] it. (See Black’s page 1250)

Qui non prohibet id quod prohibere potest, assentire videtur. He who does not forbid what he is able to prevent, is considered to assent. (See Black’s page 1250) 

Qui non propulsat injuriam quando potest, infert. He who does not repel an injury when he can, induces it. (See Black’s page 1250)     

Qui primum peccat ilie facit rixam. He who sins first makes the strife. (See Black’s page 1250)

Qui prior est tempore potior est jure. He who is before in time is the better in right.  Priority in time gives preference in law. (a maxim of very extensive application, both at law and in equity) (See Black’s page 1250) 

Qui prior est tempore, potior est jure. He who is first or before in time, is stronger in right. (Bouvier’s)

Qui tacet, consentire videtur. He who is silent is supposed to consent.  The silence of a party implies his consent. (See Black’s page 1251) 

Qui tacet consentire videtur, ubi tractatur de ejus commodo. He who is silent is considered as assenting, when his interest is at stake. (See Black’s page 1251) 

Qui vult decipi, decipiatur. Let him who wishes to be deceived, be deceived. (See Black’s page 1251)  I Corinthians 14:38 “But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant.”

Qui vult decipi, decipiatur. Let him who wishes to be deceived, be deceived. (Bouvier’s)  

Quod ab initio non valet in tractu temporis non convalescet. That which is bad in its commencement improves not by lapse of time. (See Black’s page 1252)

Quod ab initio non valet in tractu temporis non convalescit. That which was originally void does not by lapse of time become valid. (Broom’s)

Quod contra juris rationem receptum est, non est producendum ad consequentias. What has been admitted against the spirit of the law, ought not to be heard. (Bouvier’s)

Quod datum est ecclesiæ, datum est deo.  What is given to the church is given to God. (See Black’s page 1252)

Quod initio vitiosum est, non potest tractu temporis convalescere. Time cannot render valid an act void in its origin. (Bouvier’s)

Quod naturalis ratio inter omnes hominess constituit, vocatur jus gentium. That which natural reason has established among men is called the “law of nations”. (See Black’s page 1253)
    

Quod non capit Christus, capit fiscus.  What Christ (the church) does not take the treasury takes. (See Black’s page 1253)

Quod nullius esse potest id ut alicujus fieret nulla obligatio valet efficere.  No agreement can avail to make that the property of anyone which cannot be acquired as property. (See Black’s page 1254)  (for instance, the church at Salem!)  

Quod nullius esse potest, id ut alicujus fieret nulla obligatio valet efficere. Those things which cannot be acquired as property, cannot be the object of an agreement. (Bouvier’s)

Quod nullius est, est domini regis. That which is the property of nobody belongs to our lord the king. (See Black’s page 1254)

Quod nullius est, id ratione naturali occupanti conceditur. That which is the property of no one is, by natural reason, given to the [first] occupant. (Adopted in the common law) (See Black’s page 1254)

Quod prius est verius est; et quod prius est tempore potius est jure.  What is first is true; and what is first in time is better in law. (See Black’s page 1254)

Quodque dissolvitur eodem modo quo ligatur.  In the same manner that a thing is bound, in the same manner it is unbound. (See Black’s page 1254)

Quoties in stipulationibus ambigua oratio est, commodissimum est id accipi quo res de qua agitur in tuto sit. Whenever the language of stipulations is ambiguous, it is most fitting that that [sense] should be taken by which the subject-matter may be protected. (See Black’s page 1256)

Quoties in verbis nulla est ambiguitas, ibi nulla expositio contra verba fienda est. When in the words there is no ambiguity, then no exposition contrary to the words is to be made. (See Black’s page 1256)
  
Quum quod ago non valet utago, valeat quantum valere potest. When what I do is of no force as to the purpose for which I do it, let it be of force to as great a degree as it can. (See Black’s page 1257)

Recognizance. An obligation undertaken by a person. (See Black’s page 1271)

Record notice. When an instrument of conveyance or a mortgage is recorded in the appropriate public office, it is constructive notice of its contents to the whole world. (See Black’s page 1275)

Recurrendum est ad extraordinarium quando non valet ordinarium. We must have recourse to what is extraordinary when what is ordinary fails. (See Black’s page 1277) 

Recurrendum est ad extraordinarium quando non valet ordinarium. We must have recourse to what is extraordinary, when what is ordinary fails. (Bouvier’s)

Rei turpis nullum mandatum est. A mandate of an illegal thing is void. (Bouvier’s)

Religion. (See Black’s page 1292)

Religious corporation. (See Black’s page 1292)

Religious freedom. (See Black’s page 1292)

Religious liberty. (See Black’s page 1292)

Rerum ordo confunditur si unicuique jurisdictio non servetur. The order of things is confounded if every one preserves not his jurisdiction. (See Black’s page 1304)

Rerum ordo confunditur, si unicuique jurisdictio non servetur. The order of things is confounded if every one preserves not his jurisdiction. (Bouvier’s)

Resident. (See Black’s page 1309)

Res sacra non recipit æstimationem. A sacred thing does not admit of valuation. (See Black’s page 1313) (You cannot put a price on the things of God – William Raymond)   

Roman Catholic Church. A “juristic personality”. (See Black’s page 1330)

Sacrilegus omnium prædonum cupiditatem et scelera superat.  A sacrilegious person transcends the cupidity and wickedness of all other robbers. (See Black’s page 1335)

Sacrilege. (See Black’s page 1335)

Sacrilegium. The stealing of sacred things. (See Black’s page 1335)

Sacrilegus. (See Black’s page 1335)

Sepe viatorim nova non vetus orbita fallit. Often it is the new road, not the old one, which deceives the traveler. (Bouvier’s)

Saepenumero uvb proprietas verboem attenditur, sensus veritatis amittitur. Frequently where the propriety of words is attended to, the meaning of truth is lost. (Bouvier’s)

Salus populi est suprema lex. The safety of the people is the supreme law. (Bouvier’s 

Salus populi est suprema lex. The safety of the people is the supreme law. (Broom's)

Salus ube multi consiliarii. In many counselors there is safety. (Bouvier’s)

Sanctuary. (See Black’s page 1341)

Sapientis judicis est cogitare tantum sibi esse permissum, quantum commissum et creditum.  It is the part of a wise judge to think that a thing is permitted to him, only so far as it is committed and intrusted to him.  That is, he should keep his jurisdiction within the limits of his commission. (See Black’s page 1342)  (“intrusted” should probably be “entrusted”.      

Satius est petere fonts quam sectari rivulos. It is better to seek the source than to follow streamlets. (See Black’s page 1342)

Scire debes cum quo contrahis. You ought to know with whom you deal. 
(See Black’s page1346)

Scire debes cum quo contrahis. You ought to know with whom you deal. (Bouvier’s)

Scire leges, non hoc est verba eorum tenere, sed vim et potestatem. To know the laws, is not to observe their mere words, but their force and power. Dig. 1, 3, 17.

Scire proprie est, rem ratione et per causam cognoscere. To know properly is to know the reason and cause of a thing. Co. Litt. 183.

Scribere est agere. To write is to act. 2 Roll. R. 89.

Scriptae obligationes scriptis tolluntur, et nude consensus obligatio, contrario consensu dissolvitur. Written obligations are dissolved by writing, and obligations of naked assent by similar naked assent.

Secular. (See Black’s page 1353) 

Secular clergy. (See Black’s page 1353)

Semper præsumitur pro matrimonio. The presumption is always in favor of the validity of a marriage. (See Black’s page 1361)

Semper necessitas probandi incumbit qui agit. The claimant is always bound to prove: the burden of proof lies on him. (Bouvier’s)

Sensus verborum est anima legis. The meaning of words is the spirit of the law. (Black’s)

Sermo index animi. Speech is an index of the mind. (Bouvier’s)

Servi. Slaves; Bondmen, servile tenants over whom the master had absolute dominion. (See Black’s page 1386) 

Si a jure discedas vagus eris, et erunt omnia omnibus incerta. If you depart from the law, you will wander without a guide, and everything will be in a state of uncertainty to every one. (Bouvier’s)

Si assuetis mederi possis nova non sunt tentanda. If you can be relieved by accustomed remedies, new ones should not be tried. (Bouvier’s)

Si ita est. “If it be so”. Emphatic words in the old writ of mandamus to a judge, commanding him, if the fact alleged be truly stated (si ita est), to affix his seal to a bill of exceptions. (See Black’s page 1382) 

Si judicas, cognosce. If you judge, understand. (See Black’s page 1382)

Si judicas, cognasce. If you judge, understand. (Bouvier’s)

Silent leges inter arma. The power of law is suspended during war. (See Black’s page 1382)

Si meliores sunt quos ducit amor, plures sunt quos corrigit timor. If those are better who are led by love, those are the greater number who are corrected by fear. (See Black’s page 1383)

Si meliores sunt quos ducit amor, plures sunt quos corrigit timor. If many are better led by love, more are corrected by fear. (Bouvier’s)

Si quis custos fraudem pupillo fecerit, a tutela removendus est. If a guardian behave fraudently to his ward, he shall be removed from the guardianship. (Bouvier’s)

Si quid universitate debetur singulis non debetur, nec quod debet, universitas singuli debent. If anything is due to a corporation, it is not due to the individual members of it, nor do the members individually owe what the corporation owes. (Bouvier’s)

Sic interpretandum est ut verba accipiantur cum effectu. Such an interpretation is to be made, that the words may have an effect. (Bouvier’s)

Sic utere tuo ut alienum non laedas. So use your own as not to injure another's property. 1 Bl. Com. 306; Broom's max. (Bouvier’s)

Simplicitas est legibus amica. Simplicity is favorable to the law. (Bouvier’s)

Social contract, or compact. In political philosophy, a term applied to the theory of the origin of society…Laws resulting from the combination of men who agreed, for mutual protection, to surrender individual freedom of action. Government must therefore rest on the consent of the governed.” - Black’s page 1390

Sodomy.  While variously defined in state and criminal statutes, is generally oral or anal copulation between humans, or between humans and animals. - Black’s page 1391

So help you God.  The words commonly at the end of a common oath. - Black’s page 1391

Sojourning.  This term means something more than “traveling,” and applies to a temporary, as contradistinguished from a permanent residence. - Black’s page 1391

Solemnitas juris sunt observandae. The solemnities of law are to be observed. (Bouvier’s)

Source of the law. The origin from which particular positive laws derive their authority and coercive force; such as constitutions, treaties, statutes, usages, and customs. - Black’s page 1395

Sovereign. A person, body, or state in which independent and supreme authority is vested; a chief ruler with supreme power; a king or other ruler in a monarchy. - Black’s page 1395

Sovereign immunity.  “… a foreign nation is immune from the jurisdiction of federal and state courts” - Black’s page 1395

Sovereign power or sovereign prerogative. That power in a state to which none other is superior or equal, and which includes all the specific powers necessary to accomplish the legitimate ends and purposes of government. - Black’s page 1395

Sovereignty. The supreme, absolute, and uncontrollable power by which any independent state is governed. - Black’s page 1395

Spes impunitatis continuum affectum tribuit delinquendi. The hope of impunity holds out a continual temptation to crime. 3 Co. Inst. 236.

Spiritual. Relating to religious or ecclesiastical persons or affairs, as distinguished from “secular” or lay, worldly, or business matters. - Black’s page 1400

Spoliatus debet ante omnia restitui. Spoil ought to be restored before anything else. 2 Co. Inst. 714.

Stabit praesumptio donec probetur in contrarium. A presumption will stand good until the contrary is proved. (Bouvier’s)

Statutable, or statutory. That which is introduced or governed by statutory law, as opposed to the common law or equity. - Black’s page 1410

Statutory extortion. (See Black’s page 1412)

Statutum generaliter est intelligendum quaudo verva statuti sunt specialia, ratio autem generalis. When the words of a statute are special, but the reason of it general, it is to be understood generally. (Bouvier’)

Statutum speciale statuto speciali non derogat. One special statute does not take away from another special statute. (Bouvier’s)

Stranger. Those who are in no way parties to a covenant or transaction. - Black’s page 1421 

Straw man or party.  A “front”; a third party who is put up in name only to take part in a transaction. - Black’s page 1421  

Suæ potestate esse. “by the power existing in us” (?) 

Sublato fundamento cadit opus. The foundation being removed, the superstructure falls. (See Black’s page 1425)

Sublato principali tollitur adjunctum. If the principal be taken away, the adjunct is also taken away. (Bouvier’s)

Substance. (See Black’s page 1428)

Summa ratio lex quæ pro religione facit. That is the highest law which favors religion. (See Black’s page 1435) 

Summa ratio est quæ pro religione facit. That consideration is strongest which determines in favor of religion. (See Black’s page 1435)

Summa Ratio est quæ pro Religione facit. If ever the laws of God and man are at variance, the former are to be obeyed in derogation of the latter. (Bouvier’s and also in Broom’s page 40)

Suppressio veri, expressio falsi. Suppression of the truth is [equivalent to] the expression of what is false. (See Black’s page 1440)

Tacita quaedam habentur pro expressis. Things silent are sometimes considered as expressed. 8 Co. 40.

Tacto per se sancto evangelio. Having personally touched the holy Gospel.  The description of a corporal oath. (See Black’s page 1452)

Tres faciunt collegium. Three make a corporation; three members are requisite to constitute a corporation. (See Black’s page 1502)

Ubi cassat remedium ordinarium, ibi decurritur ad extraordinarium. Where the ordinary remedy fails, recourse must be had to an extraordinary one. (See Black’s page 1520)

Ubi cessat remedium ordinarium ibi decurritur ad extraordinarium. When a common remedy ceases to be of service, recoruse must be had to an extraordinary one. (Bouvier’s)

Ubi est forum, ibi ergo est jus. The law of the forum governs. (See Black’s page 1520)  

Ubi jus ibi remedium. It is a maxim of law that there is no wrong without a right. (Broom’s)


Ubi non adest norma legis, omnia quasi pro suspectis habenda sunt. When the law fails to serve as a rule, almost everything ought to be suspected. (See Black’s page 1521)

Ubi non est condendi auctoritas, ibi non est parendi necessitas. Where there is no authority for establishing a rule, there is no necessity of obeying it. (See Black’s page 1521)

Ubi non est lex, ibi non est transgressio, quoad mundum. Where there is no law, there is no transgression, so far as relates to the world. (See Black’s page 1521)    

Ubi non est lex, non est transgressio quoad mundum. Where there is no law there is no transgression, as it regards the world. (Bouvier’s)

Ubi quid generaliter conceditur, in est haec exceptio, si non aliquid sit contra jus fasque. Where a thing is concealed generally, this exception arises, that there shall be nothing contrary to law and right. (Bouvier’s)

Ultima voluntas testatoris est perimplenda secundum veram intentionem suam. The last will of a testator is to be fulfilled according to his true intention. (See Black’s page 1522)  

Understand. (See Black’s page 1526)

Unumquodque principiorum est sibimetipsi fides; et perspicua vera non sunt probanda. Every general principle [or maxim of law] is its own pledge or warrant; and things that are clearly true are not to be proved. (See Black’s page 1540) 

Usurpation. (See Black’s page 1545)

Uxor. A wife; a woman lawfully married. (See Black’s page 1547)

Uxor et filius sunt nomina naturæ. Wife and son are names of nature. (See Black’s page 1547)

Uxor non est sui juris, sed sub potestate viri. A wife is not her own mistress, but under the power of her husband. (See Black’s page 1547)  

Vana est illa potentia quæ nunquam venit in actum. That power is vain [idle or useless] which never comes into action [which is never exercised]. (See Black’s page 1552)

Vana est illa potentia quae numquam venit in actum. Vain is that power which is never brought into action. (Bouvier’s)

Verba accipienda sunt cum effectu, ut sortiantur effectum. Words are to be received with effect, so that they may produce effect. (See Black’s page 1557)

Verba artis ex arte. Term of art should be explained from art. (See Black’s page 1557)

Verba debent intelligi cum effectu ut res magis valeat quam pereat. Words ought to be understood with effect, that a thing may rather be preserved than destroyed. (See Black’s page 1557)

Verba pro re et subjecta materia accipi debent. Words ought to be understood in favor of the thing and subject-matter. (See Black’s page 1559)

Verba secundum materiam subjectam intelligi nemo est qui nesciat. There is no one who does not know that words are to be understood according to their subject-matter. (See Black’s page 1559)

Verbis standum ubi nulla ambiguitas. One must abide by the words where there is no ambiguity. (See Black’s page 1559)

Veritas, a quocunque dicitur, a Deo est. Truth, by whomsoever produced, is from God. (See Black’s page 1561)

Veritas demonstrationis tollit errorem nominis. The truth of the description removes an error in the name. (See Black’s page 1561)

Veritas nihil veretur nisi abscondi. Truth fears nothing but to be hid. (See Black’s page 1562) 

Veritas nominis tollit errorem demonstrationis. The truth of the name takes away the error of description. (See Black’s page 1562)

Veritas quæ minine defensatur opprimitur; et qui non improbat, approbat. Truth which is not sufficiently defended is overpowered; and he who does not disapprove, approves. (See Black’s page 1562)   

Veritatem qui non libere pronunciat proditor est veritatis. He who does not freely speak the truth is a betrayer of truth. (See Black’s page 1562)

Veritatem qui non libere pronunciat, proditor est veritatis. He who does not speak the truth, is a traitor to the truth. (Bouvier’s)

Via antique via est tuta. The old way is the safe way. (See Black’s page 1565)

Viligiantibus et non dormientibus jurs subveniunt. The laws aid those who are vigilant, not those who sleep upon their rights. (See Black’s page 1569)

Vigilantibus et non dormientibus serviunt leges. The laws serve the vigilant, not those who sleep upon their rights. (Bouvier’s)

Vir et uxor censentur in lege ura persona. Husband and wife are considered one person in law. (See Black’s page 1570) 

Vir et uxor consentur in lege una persona. Husband and wife are considered one person in law. (Bouvier’s)

Vir et uxor sunt quasi unica persona, quia caro et sanguis unus; res licet sit propria uxoris, vir tamen ejus custos, cum sit caput mulieris. Man and wife are, as it were, one person, because only one flesh and blood; although the property may be the wife’s, the husband is the keeper of it, since he is the head of the wife. (See Black’s page 1570)

Virgo intacta. A pure virgin. (See Black’s page 1571) 

Vir militans deo non implicetur secularibus negotiis. A man fighting for God must not be involved in secular business. (See Black’s page 1571) 
I Timothy 2:4   “No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.”  

Vis armata. Armed force.  Force exerted by means of arms or weapons. (See Black’s page 1571)               

Visit. (See Black’s page 1572)

Visitation. gfgfgg (See Black’s page 1572)

Vitium scriptoris. The fault or mistake of a writer or copyist; a clerical error. (See Black’s page 1572)

Void ab initio. Null and void from the beginning when in serious offense of law or public policy. (See Black’s page 1574)

Voluntas donatoris in charta doni sui manfiste expressa observetur. The will of the donor manifestly expressed in his deed of gift is to be observed. (See Black’s page 1576)

War. (See Black’s page 1583)

Worldly. (See Black’s page 1606)

Worship. (See Black’s page 1606)