Legal Definitions - ad curiam

Ad curiam is a Latin legal phrase that translates to "to court" or "at court." It refers to actions, proceedings, or matters that are brought before a judicial body or occur within the court's jurisdiction.

• Example 1: Witness Summons

  During a complex trial, a judge might issue a directive for a crucial witness to appear ad curiam to provide testimony. This means the witness is legally compelled to present themselves "to court" to speak under oath.

  This example illustrates "ad curiam" as a command for an individual to physically come before the court to participate in legal proceedings.

• Example 2: Judicial Review of an Administrative Decision

  If a government agency makes a decision that a citizen believes is unlawful or unfair, the citizen might seek to have that decision reviewed by a judge. In this process, the agency's action is brought ad curiam, meaning it is presented "to court" for legal examination and potential reversal.

  Here, "ad curiam" signifies that a matter or decision is being submitted to the judicial system for scrutiny and resolution.

• Example 3: Filing a Legal Motion

  A lawyer representing a client in a lawsuit might file a motion requesting a specific action from the judge, such as postponing a hearing or compelling the opposing party to produce documents. This motion is submitted ad curiam, meaning it is formally presented "to court" for the judge's consideration and ruling.

  This demonstrates "ad curiam" in the context of submitting official documents or requests directly to the judicial authority for a decision.