Off Calendar: What It Means in Legal Context

Definition & Meaning

The term "off calendar" refers to a court order that removes a lawsuit, petition, or motion from the list of cases scheduled for a hearing. This typically occurs when the involved attorneys agree to withdraw the case. Once a case is off calendar, it can be reinstated "on calendar" through mutual agreement or by filing a motion by either party.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: Two parties in a civil lawsuit agree to settle their differences outside of court. They file a stipulation to take the case off calendar, pausing any court proceedings while they finalize their agreement.

Example 2: In a family law case, both parents agree to modify their custody arrangement. They decide to take their motion off calendar to allow time for negotiation (hypothetical example).

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Notes
California Commonly used in civil cases; requires formal stipulation.
New York May involve specific forms to submit to the court.
Texas Off calendar procedures vary by court rules.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
On Calendar A case that is scheduled for a hearing. Opposite of off calendar; indicates active proceedings.
Stipulation An agreement between parties regarding a legal matter. Can lead to a case being taken off calendar.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you find yourself in a situation where your case may be taken off calendar, consider the following steps:

  • Communicate with the other party to discuss the possibility of withdrawing the case.
  • Consult with a legal professional for advice tailored to your circumstances.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can assist you in drafting necessary documents.

Quick facts

  • Typical fees: Varies by jurisdiction and attorney.
  • Jurisdiction: Depends on the court where the case is filed.
  • Possible penalties: None for taking a case off calendar; however, failure to comply with court orders may lead to penalties.

Key takeaways