What is Recordari? A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Meaning

Definition & Meaning

A recordari is a legal procedure used as an alternative to appealing a judgment from a court that does not keep formal records. This process is typically invoked when a party believes that their right to appeal has been compromised due to circumstances beyond their control, such as fraud or an accident that caused them to miss the appeal deadline.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A person was unable to file an appeal after a small claims court decision because they were misled by the opposing party about the appeal process. They may file a recordari to seek relief from the judgment.

Example 2: A defendant in a minor traffic case missed the appeal deadline due to a car accident that left them hospitalized. They could potentially use a recordari to contest the judgment.

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Recordari Process
North Carolina Recognizes recordari as a valid procedure under specific circumstances.
California Does not have a formal recordari process; appeals must follow standard procedures.

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

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Appeal A formal request to a higher court to review a lower court's decision. Appeals are typically filed within strict time limits and require a record of the original trial.
Writ of Certiorari A document issued by a higher court to review a case from a lower court. Used primarily in higher courts, while recordari is for cases without formal records.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe you need to file a recordari, consider the following steps:

  • Gather all relevant documentation regarding the original judgment and the circumstances that led to your missed appeal.
  • Consult with a legal professional to understand your options and the likelihood of success.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can assist you in preparing your recordari filing.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Typical Fees Varies by state and court; consult local court for details.
Jurisdiction State courts that do not keep formal records.
Possible Penalties Potential loss of rights to appeal if not filed correctly.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

The purpose of a recordari is to allow individuals to appeal a judgment from a court that does not maintain formal records, especially when circumstances prevented them from appealing in the usual manner.