Aequitas soror iuris. If equity is the sister of the law, she is a much- neglected sibling. Only rarely does equity step out of the shadow of the law to make an independent appearance. Most of the time, equity is seen as a natural attribute of the law that does not require much attention. But equity has a far more active life than would appear at first sight. Equity is hidden and yet ubiquitous. It influences legislators as well as adjudicators. Both are driven by considerations of equity. The legislator strives to make laws that are equitable in the sense of distributive justice. The adjudicator attempts to make decisions that are not merely correct but also just. It is no coincidence that the Latin aequitas stands not just for equity but also for equanimity. Our conscience demands equity. Fairness is essential for our peace of mind.