Aequitas Sequitur Legem

Aequitas Sequitur Legem

“Aequitas Sequitur Legem” is a Latin phrase that translates to “Equity follows the law” in English. This principle emphasizes that equitable decisions should be made in accordance with established legal principles and precedents. It suggests that fairness and justice should be applied consistently within the framework of the law.

“Aequitas Sequitur Legem” is a Latin maxim that translates to “Equity follows the law.” This legal principle signifies that equity, which is a system of justice that aims to provide fairness and remedy, is guided and bound by the established rules of law. The maxim ensures that equity does not supersede or contradict the law, but rather supplements it to achieve a just outcome in cases where the law may be inadequate. It serves as a reminder that fairness and justice must be pursued within the framework of the existing legal system.

Aequitas sequitur legem is a Latin legal maxim that literally translates to “equity follows the law.” It’s a foundational principle in many legal systems, particularly common law ones like the United States and the United Kingdom.

Here’s a breakdown of the idea:

• Law as the foundation: Court decisions should primarily be based on established laws and legal precedents.
• Considering fairness: While the law is the guiding principle, there’s room to consider fairness (equity) when the strict application of law might lead to an unjust outcome.
• Law and fairness in balance: The maxim acknowledges that laws might not always be perfectly fair in every situation. In such cases, courts can consider equitable principles to find a just resolution, but they should still adhere to the law as the core framework.

So, aequitas sequitur legem reflects the tension between the need for a stable legal system based on clear rules and the desire for fair outcomes in individual cases.