Maxim

An established principle or proposition; a principle of law universally admitted, as being just and consonant with reason. The wisdom of many, but the wit of one. Maxims in law are somewhat like axioms in geometry.

1 Bl. Comm. 68.

They are principles and authorities, and part of the general customs or common law of the land, and are of the same strength as acts of parliament, when the judges have determined what is a maxim; which belongs to the judges and not the jury.

Termes de la Ley; Doctor & Stud. Dial. 1, c. 8.

Maxims taken for granted.

Co. Litt. 11, 67. See Plowd. 27b.

The application of the maxim to the case before the court is generally the only difficulty. The true method of making the application is to ascertain hpw the maxim arose, and to consider whether the case to which it is applied is of the same character, or whether it is an exception to an apparently general rule. ♦The most important of the maxims of law will be found alphabetically arranged through this book. MAXIME ITA DICTA QUIA MAXIMA est ejus dignitas et certlssima auctoritas, atque quod maxime omnibus probetur. A maxim is so called because its dignity is chiefest, and its authority the most certain, and because universally approved by all.

Co. Litt. 11.