Lex Rex is a principle of governance that emphasizes the rule of law over the rule of individuals. This concept originated from the title of Samuel Rutherford's book, Lex, Rex, published in 1644. In this work, Rutherford argued for a system of limited government and constitutionalism, asserting that laws should govern society rather than the arbitrary decisions of rulers.
Lex Rex is primarily used in discussions about constitutional law and governance. It serves as a foundational principle in various legal contexts, including:
This principle can influence how laws are interpreted and applied, ensuring that government actions are subject to legal standards. Users can find legal templates related to governance and constitutional matters through resources like US Legal Forms.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: In a legal challenge against a government agency, a citizen argues that the agency's actions violated established laws, thereby invoking the principle of Lex Rex to seek accountability.
Example 2: A court ruling that invalidates an executive order because it exceeds the authority granted by law illustrates the application of Lex Rex in protecting citizens from unlawful government actions.
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Lex Rex | Rule of law governing society. | Focuses on law as the authority, not individuals. |
| Rex Lex | Rule by the king or sovereign. | Emphasizes the authority of the ruler over laws. |
If you believe your rights are being violated by government actions, consider the following steps:
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| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Principle | Rule of law |
| Origin | Samuel Rutherford's book, 1644 |
| Legal Areas | Constitutional, administrative, human rights |
Lex Rex means "the law is king," emphasizing that laws govern society rather than individuals.