Civil Law Notes

*Ignorance of the law excuses no one from compliance therewith; if there is a valid
publication, the law becomes effective and no one can interpose ignorance as
defense. If there is no valid publication, ignorance is a defense.

*Laws shall have no retroactive effect unless expressly provided for in law
Exceptions:
-provided by law itself
-favorable to the accused
- law is curative in nature

Limitations on the Power of the Congress to give laws retroactive application

-ex post facto law
- laws that impair obligations and contracts
-laws that prejudice vested rights

Ex post facto law, law that retroactively makes criminal conduct that was not
criminal when performed, increases the punishment for crimes already committed.