How Do You Spell APICES JURIS NON SUNT JURA?

Pronunciation: [ˈapɪsɪz d͡ʒˈʊ͡əɹɪs nˈɒn sˈʌnt d͡ʒjˈʊ͡əɹə] (IPA)

The phrase "Apices juris non sunt jura" is a Latin legal principle meaning "the top of the law is not the law." The pronunciation of the phrase is [aˈpi.kes ˈju.ris noːn sunt ˈju.ra], with emphasis on the first syllable of each word. The word "apices" is pronounced [a.ˈpi.kez], with the final "es" like the "ez" in "chez." The word "juris" is pronounced [ˈju.ris], with a short "u" sound, and the final "is" pronounced like the "ee" in "tree."

Meaning and Definition
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APICES JURIS NON SUNT JURA Meaning and Definition

  1. Apices juris non sunt jura is a Latin legal maxim that roughly translates to "The topmost points of the law are not the law." This phrase represents a fundamental principle in legal interpretation and highlights the complexity of legal systems.

    The maxim emphasizes that the highest authorities in the legal system, such as legal treatises, scholarly opinions, or judicial dicta, do not carry the same weight as the law itself. In other words, the opinions and interpretations of legal scholars or judges are not binding and do not have the same authority as legislative acts or established legal precedent.

    According to this principle, legal professionals must prioritize the actual laws and statutes enacted by legislatures, as well as the precedents set by higher courts, rather than relying solely on the opinions of legal experts or secondary sources. While opinions from legal scholars can contribute to the understanding and interpretation of the law, they do not have the force of law and cannot overturn established legal principles.

    Apices juris non sunt jura reminds legal practitioners that the ultimate source of law lies in legislation and judicial precedent, not in individual opinions or scholarly writings. It underscores the importance of adhering to the hierarchy of legal authority and relying on primary sources when interpreting or applying the law.