Exploring Libel of Review: A Unique Legal Remedy in Admiralty Law

Definition & Meaning

A libel of review is a legal procedure used in some Admiralty Courts to request a correction or change to a court decree after it has been issued. This process is applicable when the time for appealing the original decree has passed, and no other legal remedy is available. The libel of review is similar to a bill of review in equity, which is a request to revise a court's final judgment. It is designed for situations where the court cannot alter its decision after the term has expired, unless the request was initiated during that term.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A shipping company receives a decree from an Admiralty Court regarding a contract dispute. After the appeal period ends, they discover new evidence that could change the outcome. They file a libel of review to request the court to reconsider its decision based on this new information.

Example 2: A vessel owner is dissatisfied with a ruling about damages awarded after an accident at sea. Since the time to appeal has lapsed, they file a libel of review to seek a correction of the decree based on procedural errors during the original hearing. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Libel of Review A request to change a decree after the appeal period has expired. Used only in Admiralty Courts; no other remedies available.
Bill of Review A request to alter a final judgment in equity. Generally used in civil cases, not limited to maritime law.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe a libel of review applies to your situation, consider the following steps:

  • Review the original decree and the reasons for your dissatisfaction.
  • Gather any new evidence or information that supports your request for a review.
  • Consult a legal professional to ensure that you meet all necessary criteria for filing.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you prepare your libel of review.

Quick facts

  • Jurisdiction: Admiralty Courts
  • Typical Fees: Varies by court
  • Possible Outcomes: Correction of decree, denial of request

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It is a legal procedure to request a change to a court decree after the appeal period has passed.