The maxims of equity evolved, in Latin and eventually translated into English, as the principles applied by courts of equity in deciding cases before them.

Among the traditional maxims are:

• Equity regards as done that which ought to be done.
• Equity will not suffer a wrong to be without a remedy.
• Equality is equity.
• Equity regards substance rather than form.
• One who seeks equity must do equity.
• One who comes into equity must come with clean hands.
• Equity aids the vigilant, not those who slumber on their rights.
• Equity imputes an intent to fulfill an obligation.
• Equity acts in personam. (Against the person, not their property)
• Delay defeats equity.
• Equity will not concern itself with abstract wrongs.
• Equity abhors a forfeiture.
• Equity does not require an idle gesture.
• Equity will not permit a party to profit by his own wrong.
• Equity delights to do justice and not by halves.
• Equity will take jurisdiction to avoid a multiplicity of suits.
• Equity follows the law.
• Equity will not aid a volunteer.
• Between equal equities the law will prevail.
• Between equal equities the first in order of time shall prevail.

In modern times, law students have summed up the meaning of the maxims as:

• Equity taketh no shit.

See also: brocard