Ubi eadem ratio ibi idem jus
| Literal meaning | Where there is the same reason, there is the same law |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | OO-bee eh-AH-dem RAH-tee-oh IB-ee EE-dem yoos |
Where the reason for a rule applies equally to another situation, the same rule should apply there too. Courts use it to extend a principle to cases of the same kind.
Example
A rule protects consumers buying goods from a shop. The same reason applies to consumers buying goods online, so the same rule applies.
Exceptions / limits
The two situations must really be alike in the reason behind the rule.
Exam tip
Asked with the reason for a law and its extension.
Memory trick
Same reason, same rule.
Key takeaway
Cases with the same reason get the same law.
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