Legal Definitions - up before

The phrase "up before" is an informal way of saying that an individual or a legal matter is scheduled to appear in the presence of a specific court, judge, or judicial body for a formal hearing, review, or proceeding.

Here are some examples illustrating its use:

• Example 1: Traffic Violation
  A driver who received a speeding ticket might decide to contest it. They would then be scheduled to go "up before" the local magistrate or traffic court judge to present their defense.

  Explanation: This illustrates an individual appearing directly in the presence of a specific judge to address a legal matter, in this case, a traffic infraction.

• Example 2: Small Claims Dispute
  If two neighbors have a disagreement over property damage and cannot resolve it privately, one might file a claim in small claims court. The case would then come "up before" the small claims judge for a decision.

  Explanation: This shows a legal dispute being formally presented to a particular judge for resolution, highlighting the concept of the matter being heard by a specific judicial authority.

• Example 3: Business Contract Review
  A company facing a complex contractual dispute with a supplier might find that the interpretation of their agreement needs to be settled. The legal team would prepare to argue the case when it comes "up before" the commercial division of the superior court.

  Explanation: Here, a significant legal issue (contractual dispute) is being brought to the attention and authority of a specific court division for a formal legal review and judgment.