Order

Order Definition in Pennsylvania

In the legal sense, an order is any verbal or written command a court issues. Black’s Law Dictionary expands on the definition, describing this term as a mandate, a proclamation, or an authoritative direction.

In a legal proceeding or court case, you typically hear these declarations referred to as court orders.

If you need help understanding the details of your case, contact the personal injury lawyers at Berger and Green at 412-661-1400.

Who Issues an Order?

Typically, judges issue orders as an explicit direction of the court. A panel of judges—such as the justices of the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS)—may also issue an order.

In most cases, judges issue their orders in writing and affix their signature to formalize the mandate. However, in some cases, judges may issue a verbal order. In that event, the official court transcripts will note the details of the judge’s order.

What Does an Order Do?

At its essence, an order compels an individual or entity related to the proceedings to carry out the contents of the mandate. It may also establish or delineate the legal relationship between the parties.

Depending on the nature of the order, it may establish something as simple as a court date. In more complex matters, however, it could set forth the specific terms of actions each party must take, as in the case of a settlement order that resolves a legal dispute.

Violating a court order can render the non-compliant party in contempt of court.

Types of Orders

The different types of court orders vary depending on the type of proceeding, the phase of the proceedings, and the evidentiary or procedural rules that govern them.

For example, a judge may issue an interim order at any point during a court proceeding, typically intended to maintain the status quo or prevent one of the parties from making a material change related to an issue in dispute. An interim order may prohibit one parent from moving a child out of state until the court resolves a custody dispute, for instance.

A final order concludes a legal matter and provides a mandate of resolution to the issue in question.

Some familiar examples of orders include:

• Injunctions;
• Search warrants;
• Protection from Abuse (PFA) orders;
• No-contact or restraining orders;
• Child custody agreements;
• Divorce decrees;
• Criminal sentences;
• Equitable remedies; and
• Lawsuit rulings.

How Do Orders Affect a Personal Injury Claim?

In a personal injury case, if the at-fault party refuses to negotiate a settlement, our attorneys may recommend filing a suit and taking your case to court. At the conclusion of the trial, the judge may issue a court order compelling the negligent party to pay damages to you—the injured party.

How Can I Get Legal Help With My Claim?

In Pennsylvania, the personal injury attorneys of Berger and Green will work tirelessly on your behalf to win your case and get you the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one sustained injuries due to the negligence of an individual, company, or entity, our attorneys can help.

Call us today at 412-661-1400 to schedule a complimentary consultation with a personal injury lawyer.