Legal Definitions - secundum regulam

Secundum regulam is a Latin phrase that translates to "according to the rule" or "by rule." It refers to an action, decision, or process that strictly adheres to established regulations, procedures, or principles. Historically, this term was used to emphasize that something was done in compliance with a recognized standard, a specific legal framework, or a set of governing guidelines.

• Example 1: Historical Legal Judgment

  Imagine a historical court case where a judge issues a ruling on a property dispute. The judge might declare that their judgment is made secundum regulam, meaning it strictly follows the established legal precedents, statutes, and procedural norms that govern property law in that jurisdiction at that time. This ensures the decision is not arbitrary but grounded in existing legal principles.

  This example illustrates "secundum regulam" because the judge's decision is explicitly stated to be in accordance with the established legal rules and framework, rather than personal discretion.

• Example 2: Formal Institutional Procedure

  Consider a professional organization's annual meeting where new board members are elected. The election committee ensures that every step of the process—from candidate nomination and ballot distribution to vote counting and announcement of results—is conducted secundum regulam. This means they meticulously follow the organization's bylaws and constitution regarding election procedures to ensure fairness and legitimacy.

  This example demonstrates "secundum regulam" by showing strict adherence to the formal, written rules and procedures governing the organization's election process.

• Example 3: Adherence to Professional Standards

  In a traditional apprenticeship system for a skilled trade, a master craftsman might evaluate an apprentice's completed project. If the project meets all the required specifications, quality standards, and techniques passed down through the guild, the master might certify it as having been executed secundum regulam. This confirms that the work aligns perfectly with the established professional standards of the craft.

  This example highlights "secundum regulam" as the apprentice's work is judged against and found to comply with the recognized and established standards and rules of their profession.