Legal Definitions - debito tempore

debito tempore

This Latin phrase translates to "in due time." It refers to the principle that an action, obligation, or condition must be fulfilled or met at the appropriate, designated, or legally required moment. While historical, the concept remains fundamental in legal systems, emphasizing the importance of timeliness in various legal contexts.

• Example 1: Contractual Obligation
  A software development contract stipulates that the final version of an application must be delivered to the client by December 31st. If the development team completes and delivers the software on December 28th, they have fulfilled their contractual obligation debito tempore, meaning they met the deadline as agreed.

  Explanation: This example illustrates "debito tempore" in the context of a contractual agreement, where a specific action (delivery of software) is performed within the agreed-upon timeframe, thus satisfying the obligation at the proper moment.

• Example 2: Legal Procedure Deadline
  A court issues an order requiring a plaintiff to submit a list of witnesses for an upcoming trial by the end of the business day on Friday. If the plaintiff's attorney files the witness list on Thursday afternoon, they have acted debito tempore, ensuring their submission is valid and considered by the court.

  Explanation: Here, "debito tempore" refers to adhering to a procedural deadline set by a legal authority. Meeting such deadlines is crucial for the proper functioning of the legal process and to avoid potential penalties or dismissal of filings.

• Example 3: Condition for a Legal Right
  A trust document specifies that a beneficiary will receive a substantial inheritance only upon graduating from a four-year university. The beneficiary successfully completes their degree requirements and officially graduates in May. At that point, the condition for receiving the inheritance is met debito tempore, allowing the trustee to distribute the funds.

  Explanation: This scenario demonstrates "debito tempore" as the moment a specific condition is fulfilled, which then triggers a legal right or entitlement, such as receiving an inheritance.