Legal Definitions - ad audiendam considerationem curiae

Ad audiendam considerationem curiae is a Latin legal phrase that translates to "to hear the judgment of the court." It refers to a formal summons or instruction for parties involved in a legal case to appear before the court specifically to receive and be informed of the court's official decision, ruling, or final judgment on a matter. It signifies the moment when the court's determination is formally announced to the litigants.

Here are some examples of how this term applies:

• Civil Litigation (Bench Trial)
  Imagine a dispute between two companies over a breach of contract. After a lengthy trial where a judge, rather than a jury, heard all the evidence and arguments, the judge takes several weeks to deliberate. When the court has reached a decision, it will issue a notice to both companies and their attorneys, instructing them to appear ad audiendam considerationem curiae. This means they are being called to court solely to hear the judge's final ruling on the contract dispute, including any awarded damages or specific performance orders.

• Family Law (Custody Hearing)
  Consider a contentious child custody case where a judge has reviewed extensive evidence, including expert testimony and social worker reports, to determine the best interests of the children. After careful consideration, the judge is ready to finalize the parenting plan and custody arrangement. The court will then schedule a session, requiring both parents and their legal representatives to attend ad audiendam considerationem curiae. This formal appearance is for the judge to officially announce the final custody orders, visitation schedules, and any other related directives, bringing a definitive resolution to that aspect of the divorce proceedings.

• Appellate Court Decision
  Suppose a criminal defendant appeals their conviction, arguing that legal errors occurred during their original trial. The appellate court hears oral arguments from both the defense and prosecution and reviews all submitted briefs and trial records. Once the panel of appellate judges has deliberated and reached a consensus on whether to affirm, reverse, or remand the lower court's ruling, they will issue a notice for the parties to appear ad audiendam considerationem curiae. This appearance is for the formal announcement of the appellate court's judgment, which will determine the future course of the defendant's case, potentially leading to a new trial or the upholding of the original conviction.