Nunc pro tunc

Definition

A court order that makes a ruling effective as of an earlier date, correcting a record to reflect what should have happened. It's the legal equivalent of backdating a receipt, except the court is allowed to do it.

Example Usage

The clerk entered the order nunc pro tunc to reflect the judge's ruling from the prior March.

Origin

Latin, 'now for then'.

Source: Black's Law Dictionary

Related Terms

Beginner

Notarize

The act of having someone with a fancy stamp watch you sign a document, which somehow makes it more official than just signing it yourself. The adult version of getting your permission slip signed.

⚖️ Legal

Beginner

gaol

The British spelling of 'jail' (yes, we're aware it's baffling)—a purpose-built monotony facility where time moves slower and bars aren't just for drinking. Think of it as an exclusive hotel with security features that work in reverse.

⚖️ Legal

Intermediate

parole

Early release from prison with strings attached, where freedom comes with a surveillance package and a curfew. You're technically out but under constant supervision, proving that forgiveness in the justice system is more of a trial period than an actual clean slate. Break the rules and you're back behind bars faster than you can say 'parole violation.'

⚖️ Legal

Beginner

Bates numbering

A sequential numbering system stamped on every page of a document production, so each page can be identified and cited by number. It turns a mountain of paper into a tidy, searchable mountain.

⚖️ Legal

Intermediate

repeals

The act of officially revoking, canceling, or invalidating a law, regulation, or legal provision, essentially legislative Ctrl+Z. When Congress repeals legislation, they're admitting that previous version didn't quite work out. Can also mean recalling someone from exile, though that usage is about as current as the practice itself.

⚖️ Legal

Beginner

law

The authoritative rulebook society collectively agreed to follow, backed by courts, cops, and consequences. Breaking it generally results in less freedom and more orange jumpsuits.

⚖️ Legal

Translate This Term

See “Nunc pro tunc” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.

Try the Translator

Share This Term

Post on X Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn

Discover a Term

Intermediate

augmentation

The act of making something bigger, better, or more impressive, usually through surgical, digital, or strategic interven...