“[A] defender may swear that he knows nothing of the matter referred, and so obtain absolvitor; but such an answer would not avail any defender in regard to a factum proprium. In regard to such a matter, an answer of nihil novit would, in the general case, be regarded as simply an evasion, and be treated as an admission of the debt.” John Trayner, Trayner’s Latin Maxims 387 (4th ed. 1894).
nihil novit
nihil novit (nI-hil noh-vit). [Law Latin] Scots law. He knew nothing. • The phrase appeared in reference to a defendant’s oath denying any knowledge of the matter in issue.
