The Principle of Legality

The Principle of Legality is a fundamental legal rule stating that no one can be punished for an action unless it was clearly defined as a crime by law at the time it was committed. This principle ensures fairness and prevents arbitrary enforcement of laws. It protects individuals from being prosecuted for actions that were not explicitly illegal, reinforcing the idea that laws must be accessible and understandable. Essentially, it upholds the idea that laws should guide behavior, ensuring that citizens know what is prohibited before they can be held accountable.