Define “pendente lite.”

The term "pendente lite" refers to relief that is granted during the pendency of a legal proceeding, meaning while the case is ongoing but not yet resolved. This form of preliminary relief is intended to provide temporary assistance to a party until a final decision is rendered by the court. Such relief can include things like temporary injunctions, custody arrangements, or financial support, which are necessary to maintain the status quo or protect a party's interests during litigation.

This concept is especially common in family law cases, where immediate and temporary arrangements might need to be made for child custody or support issues while the underlying case is being settled. The purpose of pendente lite relief is to address urgent matters that cannot wait until the conclusion of a protracted court process.