Question

The maxim "de minimus non curat lex" means ______.

• A. Law would not take action in serious matter.
• B. Law would not take action on small and trifling matter.
• C. Law does not ignore any act which causes the slightest harm.
• D. Law would take action in small and trifling act.

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Law would not take action on small and trifling matter.

De minimis is a Latin expression meaning "about minimal things", normally in the locutions de minimis non curat praetor or de minimis non curat lex a legal doctrine by which a court refuses to consider trifling matters. In criminology, the de minimis or minimalist approach is an addition to a general harm principle. The general harm principle fails to consider the possibility of other sanctions to prevent harm, and the effectiveness of criminalization as a chosen option. Those other sanctions include civil courts, laws of tort and regulation.