What is the Pendency of the Action? A Comprehensive Overview

Definition & Meaning

The term "pendency of the action" refers to the period during which a legal action is ongoing. This means that the case is still in progress and has not yet reached a resolution. A lis pendens notice is often filed to inform interested parties that a lawsuit is affecting the title or ownership of a property, signaling that there is an unresolved legal claim related to it.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A homeowner files a lawsuit against a contractor for breach of contract. During the case, the homeowner files a lis pendens notice to inform potential buyers that the property is involved in litigation.

Example 2: A business partner sues another partner for mismanagement of funds. A lis pendens is filed to alert others that the business's assets may be subject to the outcome of the lawsuit. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

State Lis Pendens Requirements
California Requires a notice to be filed with the county recorder.
Florida Must include specific information about the case and property.
New York Lis pendens must be filed in the county where the property is located.

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

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition
Lis Pendens A notice indicating that a legal action is pending regarding a property.
Judgment A final decision made by a court regarding the rights and liabilities of the parties involved.
Injunction A court order requiring a party to do or refrain from doing a specific act.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you find yourself involved in a legal action affecting property, consider the following steps:

  • Consult with a legal professional to understand your rights and obligations.
  • If necessary, file a lis pendens notice to protect your interests.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates and resources to assist with your legal documents.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Typical Fees Varies by state; filing fees may apply.
Jurisdiction State courts where the action is filed.
Possible Penalties Failure to file a lis pendens may result in loss of rights to claim against the property.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

A lis pendens is a legal notice that a lawsuit has been filed concerning a specific property, indicating that the outcome may affect the title or ownership.