In law it is a good policy never to plead what you need not, lest you oblige yourself to prove what you cannot

In law it is a good policy never to plead what you need not, lest you oblige yourself to prove what you cannot

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, was known for his keen legal mind and his ability to navigate complex legal issues with precision and skill. One of the key principles that guided Lincoln in his legal practice was the idea that it is always best to avoid unnecessary arguments and to only plead what is absolutely necessary in order to avoid obligating oneself to prove something that cannot be proven.

This principle is reflected in the quote, “In law it is a good policy never to plead what you need not, lest you oblige yourself to prove what you cannot.” Lincoln understood that in the legal arena, making unnecessary arguments or claims can often backfire and weaken one’s case. By only pleading what is essential and avoiding unnecessary complications, Lincoln was able to focus on the strongest aspects of his case and present a clear and compelling argument to the court.

Lincoln’s adherence to this principle can be seen in his approach to some of the most important legal cases of his career. For example, in the famous case of Duff Armstrong, Lincoln successfully defended his client by focusing on the key issue of alibi rather than getting bogged down in unnecessary details or arguments. By sticking to the essential facts of the case and avoiding unnecessary complications, Lincoln was able to secure a favorable outcome for his client.