Legal Definitions - matter of course

Matter of Course

"Matter of course" refers to an action, step, or outcome that is considered standard, expected, or automatic within a particular legal or administrative process. It describes something that happens routinely because it aligns with established rules or procedures, often without requiring special permission, deliberation, or a specific order from an authority.

• Example 1: Filing a Standard Legal Document

  When a lawyer files a document like a "notice of appearance" with the court, informing all parties that they now represent a client in a case, this is generally a matter of course. The lawyer does not need to ask a judge for special permission to file this notice; it is a standard procedural step that simply informs the court and other parties of their involvement, as dictated by court rules.

• Example 2: Routine Business License Renewal

  A small business that consistently meets all local regulations and pays its annual fees on time might find that the renewal of its operating license is a matter of course. As long as there are no outstanding issues or changes in the business's operations that violate codes, the renewal is an expected, automatic administrative process rather than requiring a new, detailed review or special approval each year.

• Example 3: Contractual Right to Information

  In a partnership agreement, if one partner has a clause stating they have the right to review the company's financial records at any time with reasonable notice, then providing those records upon request is a matter of course. The managing partner cannot refuse or demand a special reason; it's an established, routine obligation based on the terms of their agreement.