mala fide

See also: malafide and malâ fide

English

Alternative forms

• malâ fide

Etymology

From Latin. The word mala, which is the ablative feminine of the word malus (meaning "bad") + fide, the ablative of fides meaning "faith". Literally meaning "in bad faith".

Adverb

mala fide (not comparable)

1. (law) In bad faith.
   • 2001, Maritime Motors (PTY) LTD v Von Steiger and another, 2001 (2) SA 584 (SE) @ 600

     Having regard to this dictum it is clear to me that the plaintiff cannot rely on negotiorum gestorum to recover damages. The gestor, ie the plaintiff, did not intend to serve the dominus, ie the defendants. The gestor did not act bona fide in the mistaken belief that he was serving the dominus. It was the plaintiff's evidence that in an attempt to preserve its good name and reputation it was decided to accept the cancellation of the agreement. It is thus clear that the gestor, the plaintiff acted mala fide in its own interest. In my view, the plaintiff cannot succeed on this principle of negotiorum gestorum.

Antonyms

• bona fide