Legal Definitions - ex re nata

Ex re nata is a Latin phrase that translates to "from the matter born" or "as the situation arises." It refers to actions, decisions, or procedures that are initiated or undertaken specifically in response to an unforeseen event, new development, or particular circumstances that have just occurred, rather than being part of a pre-planned schedule or routine.

Here are some examples to illustrate this concept:

• Imagine a technology company that suddenly discovers a critical security vulnerability in its flagship software product. The board of directors, recognizing the immediate threat to customer data and company reputation, might call an ex re nata meeting. This meeting is not part of their regular quarterly schedule but is convened specifically because of the urgent and unexpected security issue that has arisen. The decisions made during this meeting would be a direct response to the "case that has arisen."

• Consider a complex civil lawsuit where, midway through the trial, a previously unknown document surfaces that could significantly alter the outcome. The presiding judge might issue an ex re nata order to allow both legal teams additional time to review this new evidence and prepare their arguments accordingly. This order is not a standard procedural step but an immediate directive issued "according to the case that has arisen" – the unexpected discovery of crucial new information.

• A local government agency responsible for public health might find itself facing an unexpected outbreak of a contagious disease. In response, the agency could implement ex re nata emergency protocols, such as setting up temporary testing centers or issuing immediate public health advisories. These measures are not part of their everyday operations but are specific, reactive steps taken "as the situation demands" to address the sudden and unforeseen health crisis.