de minimus non curat lex

de minimus non curat lex

‘the law does not concern itself with trifles.’ This maxim cannot be regarded as a statement of the law. The law will frequently penalize persons who are a minute late in payment, who deliver one widget too few or who build an inch upon another's land. Nonetheless, it is sometimes relied on by parties, advocates and judges where the law does not compel a strict approach.