Catholic Rules of Law

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The Axioms in the interpretation of Catholic Law and regulations gathered over the centuries  would do a great deal in making our  society more human, genteel, kinder and healthier. Below is a list of some of the axioms in no particular order to remember in dealing with others in writing and speech.

When there is a doubt as to the sincerity of the narrator (when relating facts), we ought to understand it favorably.

It is better that scandal be allowed, than the truth be forsaken.

Necessity makes licit what in law is illicit.

He who fulfills a precept out of fear, does other than he ought, and thus really does not fulfill it.

There is no excuse for the shepherd who does not know that the wolf has devoured the sheep.

It is unworthy  that one should be compelled to render worship.

When the rights of either are obscure, the defendant is to be given the benefit of the doubt.

Odious things ought  to be restricted, while favorable ones ought to be extended.

He who involves himself in an affair which does not concern him, is not without fault.

One ought not to suffer for the offensive conduct of another.

One delays to his own detriment.

To one knowing and willing no injury or fraud is done.

That which pertains to all ought to be approved by all.

In obscure matters the minimum ought to be followed.

No one can  change his mind (judgement, advice , decision) to the detriment of another.

He who is silent seems to consent.

He who is silent admits nothing, neither affirms nor denies anything.

Ignorance is presumed, where knowledge is not proved.

If the law is doubtful there is (for all practical purposes) no law; a doubtful obligation is no obligation.

General words are to be understood generally.

The deduction from the red to the black is valid. (i.e., an inference from the red 'the title', to interpret 'the black' the text is valid.

This partial list of axioms was taken from the compilation done my Maryknoll Seminarians in 1955.