Legal Definitions - a ce

Ad Hoc

The term ad hoc describes something that is created, formed, or done for a specific, immediate purpose or situation, rather than for general or long-term application. It signifies a temporary or specialized arrangement designed to address a particular need.

• Example 1: A local community organization might form an ad hoc committee to plan a special one-time fundraising event for a new park playground. This committee would exist solely for the purpose of organizing that specific event and would dissolve once the event is over and its goals are met, rather than being a permanent part of the organization's structure.

  Explanation: The committee is created "for this purpose" – the specific fundraising event – and not for ongoing, general duties, illustrating the temporary and focused nature of an ad hoc arrangement.

• Example 2: When a complex legal dispute arises that involves highly specialized technical knowledge, a court might appoint an ad hoc expert to provide an independent assessment. This expert is brought in specifically for that particular case to offer their unique insights, rather than being a standing consultant for the court on all matters.

  Explanation: The expert's role is tailored "for this purpose" – to assist with the specific technical aspects of that single case – highlighting the targeted and temporary nature of their appointment.

• Example 3: During a sudden and unexpected emergency, a city council might pass an ad hocordinance to temporarily suspend certain zoning regulations to allow for the rapid construction of emergency shelters. This ordinance would be in effect only for the duration of the crisis and would expire once the immediate need has passed.

  Explanation: The ordinance is enacted "for this purpose" – to address the immediate emergency – and is not intended to be a permanent change to the city's zoning laws, demonstrating its specific and temporary application.