Lex specialis

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Lex specialis, in legal theory and practice, is a doctrine relating to the interpretation of laws, and can apply in both domestic and international law contexts. The doctrine states that an earlier-enacted law governing a specific subject matter (lex specialis) is not overriden by a law subsequently enacted which only governs general matters (lex generalis). The name comes from the full statement of the doctrine (a legal maxim) in Latin: Lex specialis derogat legi generali.

[edit] See also

• Statutory interpretation
• International law