What are general principles of law that focus on fairness called?

The correct answer is based on the concept that equitable maxims represent fundamental principles within the realm of equity, which is a branch of law that emphasizes fairness and justice. Equitable maxims are guidelines that inform judges about how to apply principles of fairness in cases where the strict application of legal rules may lead to unjust outcomes. These maxims derive from centuries of legal tradition and aim to provide a framework for what constitutes fair treatment in various situations.

For instance, one well-known equitable maxim is "He who comes to equity must come with clean hands," which suggests that a party seeking equitable relief must not have engaged in unethical behavior related to the matter at hand. This promotes the idea that fairness is integral to judicial decisions, particularly in cases where legal remedies do not suffice.

The other options focus on different aspects of law. Legal maxims are general principles or established rules that guide legal reasoning but do not specifically emphasize fairness. Judicial principles refer to broader concepts that guide judges in their decision-making processes, and statutory guidelines pertain to laws enacted by legislative bodies rather than principles of equitable fairness. By understanding equitable maxims, one can appreciate the balance that the legal system strives for in ensuring justice.