Pendente Lite
Literal meaning: “While the litigation is pending; during the suit”
What does the Latin term "Pendente Lite" mean in law?
Pendente lite describes orders, actions, or conditions that exist or are imposed during the pendency of a lawsuit, remaining in effect only until the litigation is resolved. Pendente lite relief is temporary in nature and designed to preserve the status quo or protect the parties' interests while the underlying dispute is being adjudicated. In family law, courts routinely issue pendente lite orders for temporary spousal support, child custody, and exclusive possession of the marital home. In property disputes, a receiver may be appointed pendente lite to manage assets at risk of dissipation. The standard for pendente lite relief is generally lower than for permanent relief because the order is designed only to maintain stability during litigation.
Source: Procedure · Legal Latin
Legal Definition
Pendente lite describes orders, actions, or conditions that exist or are imposed during the pendency of a lawsuit, remaining in effect only until the litigation is resolved. Pendente lite relief is temporary in nature and designed to preserve the status quo or protect the parties' interests while the underlying dispute is being adjudicated. In family law, courts routinely issue pendente lite orders for temporary spousal support, child custody, and exclusive possession of the marital home. In property disputes, a receiver may be appointed pendente lite to manage assets at risk of dissipation. The standard for pendente lite relief is generally lower than for permanent relief because the order is designed only to maintain stability during litigation.
How It's Used
Family law and civil litigators seek pendente lite orders to obtain temporary relief that protects their clients during the often lengthy period between filing suit and final judgment. These interim orders are critical for parties who cannot wait for a final resolution to address urgent needs.
Example Sentences
The court granted pendente lite spousal support of $3,000 per month to the non-earning spouse while the divorce proceeding was pending.
A receiver was appointed pendente lite to manage the disputed commercial property and prevent the defendant from dissipating its value.
The judge issued a pendente lite order granting the mother temporary custody of the children until the final custody hearing could be held.