Verba legis non est recedendum
| Literal meaning | Do not depart from the words of the law |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | VER-ba LAY-gis non est reh-keh-DEN-dum |
Where the words of a statute are clear, a court must follow them. It must not depart from them to follow its own idea of what the law ought to be.
Example
A statute states that a notice must be given 'in writing'. The court cannot accept an oral notice.
Exceptions / limits
Where the words give an absurd result or are unclear, a court may use other rules of interpretation.
Exam tip
Asked as the literal rule.
Memory trick
Clear words, clear law.
Key takeaway
Follow the plain words of a clear statute.
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