per se rule

noun

1

: a generalized rule applied without consideration for specific circumstances

would go even further and apply a per se rule of invalidity to affirmative action programs

—Alan Freeman

called also flat rule

2

: a rule that considers a particular restraint of trade to be manifestly contrary to competition and so does not require an inquiry into precise harm or purpose for an instance of it to be declared illegal

applied the per se rule to price-fixing by public utilities

compare rule of reason