Legal Definitions - go forward

In legal terms, to go forward means to proceed with or continue the presentation of a case, or a specific stage of a legal proceeding, in court. It signifies the action of moving ahead with arguments, evidence, or testimony after a pause, a ruling, or a decision to commence.

• Example 1: After a lengthy pre-trial hearing where the defense attempted to exclude certain evidence, the judge ruled that the evidence was admissible. The judge then instructed the prosecution to go forward with calling their first witness.

  Explanation: In this scenario, "go forward" means the prosecution is now permitted and expected to commence the trial by presenting their initial evidence and testimony, having overcome the defense's attempt to block part of their case.

• Example 2: A civil lawsuit involving a contract dispute was temporarily paused while the parties explored mediation. When mediation failed to produce a settlement, the court ordered the parties to go forward with preparing for trial.

  Explanation: Here, "go forward" indicates that the legal process, which had been on hold for settlement discussions, must now resume its course towards a trial. Both sides are expected to continue their legal preparations, such as discovery and witness interviews, to present their case in court.

• Example 3: During a complex patent infringement trial, the plaintiff's expert witness was undergoing cross-examination. The defense attorney raised an objection to the expert's answer, claiming it was speculative. The judge considered the objection and ultimately overruled it, telling the defense attorney to go forward with their questioning.

  Explanation: In this context, "go forward" means the judge has decided that the defense attorney's line of questioning is permissible and should continue. The attorney is directed to resume their cross-examination of the witness without further interruption on that specific point.