Ignorance of the law is *NEVER* an excuse.
Ever say to the traffic cop, “I didn’t know the speed limit”?
How did that work our for you?
Ignorance may not be an excuse, but in a court of law, often the willful knowledge that an act is unlawful (vs unknowingly doing something unlawful) can make a difference. Sorry, but that’s a fact, and lawyers use it in the court room.