So Ordered: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Definition and Use

Definition & Meaning

"So ordered" is a phrase used in legal contexts, particularly at the conclusion of a court order or ruling. It signifies that the court has officially directed that the preceding decisions or actions are to be implemented as stated. This term emphasizes the authority of the court in making binding decisions.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A judge issues a custody order stating that the mother will have primary custody of the children. At the end of the order, the judge writes "so ordered," confirming that the arrangement is legally binding.

Example 2: In a civil lawsuit, after a settlement agreement is reached, the judge signs the order with "so ordered," indicating that both parties must adhere to the terms of the settlement. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

State Notes
California Uses "so ordered" in family law cases to finalize custody arrangements.
New York Commonly seen in civil court orders to enforce settlements.
Texas Often used in both civil and criminal matters to confirm rulings.

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
Judgment A formal decision made by a court. "So ordered" confirms the implementation of a judgment.
Order A directive issued by a court. "So ordered" indicates the order is final and enforceable.
Decree A legal order, often in family law cases. "So ordered" may be used to finalize a decree.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you encounter the term "so ordered" in your legal documents, it is essential to understand that the court's directives are enforceable. Ensure compliance with the order, and if you have questions about how it affects you, consider consulting a legal professional. Additionally, you can explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you manage related legal processes effectively.

Quick facts

  • Commonly used in civil and family law.
  • Indicates a binding court order.
  • Finalizes decisions made by the court.
  • Can be found in various legal documents.

Key takeaways