Define: Interlocutory

Interlocutory refers to a legal decision or order made by a court during the course of litigation before a final judgement is rendered. These decisions are usually temporary and address specific issues or matters that arise during the legal process, such as requests for injunctions, motions to dismiss, or evidentiary rulings. Interlocutory orders are subject to review and revision by the court and may be appealed by the parties involved. They are distinct from final judgements, which resolve all issues in a case and typically conclude the litigation.

Interlocutory matters are those that arise preliminary to a trial; for example, there may be difficulties in determining the place and time of the trial, or one party may wish to inspect documents held by the other. In the High Court (see: Court system of England) there are specific officials (see: Master of the supreme court) charged with resolving these issues.

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This glossary post was last updated: 29th March 2024.