Sine Die: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Significance

Definition & meaning

The term "sine die" is a Latin phrase that translates to "without day." It refers to the final adjournment of a legislative body or court session without setting a date to reconvene. When a legislature or court adjourns sine die, it means that there will be no further meetings scheduled, marking the end of that particular session.

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Real-World Examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A state legislature may adjourn sine die at the end of its annual session, indicating that no further meetings will occur until the next legislative year.

Example 2: A court may adjourn sine die after concluding a trial, meaning that the court will not reconvene until a future case arises. (hypothetical example)

State-by-State Differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Adjournment Process
California Legislature may adjourn sine die at the end of the session with a simple majority vote.
Texas Adjournment sine die requires a formal motion and is often accompanied by a resolution.
New York Adjournment sine die is typically decided by the leadership of the legislature.

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
Adjournment The act of suspending a session. Adjournment may have a set date, while sine die does not.
Recess A temporary break in a session. Recess implies a return to the session, unlike sine die.

What to Do If This Term Applies to You

If you are involved in a legislative or court process that may adjourn sine die, consider the following steps:

  • Stay informed about the session's status and any announcements regarding adjournment.
  • Review any documents or forms related to the session, as you may need to prepare for future actions.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you manage any necessary paperwork.
  • If your situation is complex, consult a legal professional for tailored advice.

Quick Facts

  • Term: Sine die
  • Meaning: Without day
  • Context: Legislative and judicial sessions
  • Finality: Indicates the end of a session

Key Takeaways

FAQs

Sine die means "without day," indicating that a session has ended with no scheduled date to reconvene.

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