“Pro tem” is a shortened form of the Latin phrase “pro tempore,” which translates to “for the time being” or “temporary.” In various contexts, “pro tem” is used to denote a temporary appointment or arrangement. For example, a “pro tem judge” is a temporary judge appointed to preside over a specific case or period when the regular judge is unavailable. Similarly, a “pro tem committee” may be established to address a particular issue or fill a temporary need within an organization or legislative body. The term “pro tem” is commonly used in legal, administrative, and organisational settings to indicate temporary or interim roles or arrangements.
- adj. short for the Latin pro tempore, temporarily or for the time being. In law, judge pro tem normally refers to a judge who is sitting temporarily for another judge or to an attorney who has been appointed to serve as a judge as a substitute for a regular judge. When an appeals justice is not available or there is a vacancy, a lower court judge is appointed Justice Pro Tem until a new Justice is appointed. Small claims cases are often heard by an attorney serving as Judge Pro Tem.
- n. short for a temporary judge as “Sam Collins is Pro Tem today.
“Pro Tem” is an abbreviation for “pro tempore,” a Latin term meaning “for the time being” or “temporarily.” In legal contexts, it often refers to someone serving temporarily in a specific role or capacity.
A Pro Tem Judge, or Judge Pro Tempore, is an individual appointed to serve temporarily as a judge, usually to fill in for a regular judge who is unavailable due to illness, vacation, or other reasons. Pro Tem Judges may preside over court proceedings and make legal rulings during their temporary appointment.
Pro Tem Judges are typically appointed by the court or by judicial authorities, such as a chief judge or presiding judge, based on the needs of the court and the availability of qualified individuals willing to serve in a temporary capacity.
Qualifications for serving as a Pro Tem Judge vary depending on jurisdictional requirements and the specific court’s rules. Generally, individuals appointed as Pro Tem Judges are experienced attorneys or former judges who possess knowledge of the law and judicial procedures.
Pro Tem Judges may be assigned to hear various types of cases, including civil, criminal, family law, probate, and small claims matters, depending on the jurisdiction and the needs of the court. The scope of their authority is typically determined by the appointing authority and the applicable laws.
The duration of service for a Pro Tem Judge varies depending on the circumstances of their appointment and the needs of the court. Some Pro Tem appointments may be for a single court session or trial, while others may last for weeks or months.
Pro Tem Judges typically have the same powers and authority as regular judges within the scope of their appointment. They may preside over hearings, make legal rulings, issue orders, and conduct trials, subject to the same procedural rules and legal standards.
Decisions made by a Pro Tem Judge are subject to the same appellate review process as decisions made by regular judges. Parties dissatisfied with a Pro Tem Judge’s ruling may have the right to appeal the decision to a higher court, where it will be reviewed for legal error or abuse of discretion.
When the regular judge returns to duty, the Pro Tem Judge’s appointment typically ends, and the regular judge resumes their judicial responsibilities. Any pending matters or cases presided over by the Pro Tem Judge may be transferred back to the regular judge for further proceedings.
For more information about Pro Tem Judges, including their appointment process, qualifications, and role within the judicial system, individuals can consult their local court rules, judicial websites, or seek guidance from legal professionals familiar with court procedures and practices.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 29th March, 2024.
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