A legal maxim is a short phrase or saying that lawyers use to help explain or guide their decisions about what is right or wrong in a legal case. Think of a maxim like a rule that helps lawyers make good choices about how they argue their case in front of a judge or jury.
For example, a common legal maxim is "innocent until proven guilty." This means that when someone is accused of a crime, they are considered innocent until it is proven beyond a reasonable doubt that they are guilty. This is an important rule that helps protect people's rights and ensures that fair trials are held.
Another maxim is "ignorance of the law excuses no one." This means that even if someone doesn't know they are breaking the law, they will still be held responsible for their actions. It's important to understand the laws and regulations in your community to avoid accidental wrongdoing.
In short, legal maxims are like little reminders for lawyers to do the right thing and follow the law. They help make sure that everyone is treated fairly and justly in legal cases.