William Henry Ashurst (judge)

There is no magic in parchment or in wax.

— William Henry Ashurst (judge)

Every rule may be waived by the person for whose benefit it is introduced.

— William Henry Ashurst (judge)

No man ought to be so absurd as to make a purchase without looking at the title deeds; if he is, he must take the consequence of his own negligence.

— William Henry Ashurst (judge)

No admission of the party . . . can make that legal which is in its nature illegal.

— William Henry Ashurst (judge)

It is a strong presumption that that which never has been done cannot by law be done at all.

— William Henry Ashurst (judge)

Better that an individual should suffer an injury than that the public should suffer an inconvenience.

— William Henry Ashurst (judge)

Though the mere opinion of an Attorney- or Solicitor-General ought not to be cited, yet coupled with the fact, it may have some weight as showing the general sense of professional men.

— William Henry Ashurst (judge)

When the Court see reason to suspect that justice has not been done to any particular defendant, they will in their discretion direct a further enquiry into the merits of the cause.

— William Henry Ashurst (judge)

This Court will always know to temper mercy with justice where there is room for it.

— William Henry Ashurst (judge)

General laws cannot give way to particular cases.

— William Henry Ashurst (judge)

It is every man's own fault if he does not take such advice as will be sure to lead him right.

— William Henry Ashurst (judge)

Paper currency, guarded by proper regulations and restrictions, is the life of commerce.

— William Henry Ashurst (judge)