Contra legem
Contrary to law
An act, decision or provision that is contrary to the applicable law.
Contra legem is a Latin term that literally means “against the law” and refers to situations in which an act, ruling or contractual provision conflicts with statutory requirements.
The concept is relevant in legal practice because it may affect the validity of certain actions, for example when assessing administrative decisions, contracts or judicial rulings that depart from mandatory law.
In practice, an act contra legem often results in nullity, voidability or liability, depending on the circumstances and the applicable legal provisions.
“The court held that the clause was contra legem and therefore void.”
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