Legal Definitions - nihil novit

Definition: Nihil novit (nI-hil noh-vit) is a Latin phrase used in Scots law to mean "he knew nothing." It is often used in reference to a defendant's oath denying any knowledge of the matter in issue.

For example, if a defendant is accused of a crime and swears that they know nothing about it, they may be able to obtain absolvitor (a legal ruling that they are not guilty). However, if the matter in question is something that the defendant should have known about (such as a debt they owe), an answer of nihil novit would be seen as an evasion and would not be accepted.

Overall, the phrase nihil novit is used to indicate a lack of knowledge or understanding about a particular matter.