Proceeding Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Proceeding, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Proceeding?

History and Meaning of Proceeding

Proceeding refers to the sequence of legal actions or steps taken to resolve a legal dispute. It encompasses all the steps in a legal process, such as filing a lawsuit, submitting evidence, court appearances, trials, and final judgment. The term is often used interchangeably with the phrase "legal proceedings."

The term "proceeding" has its roots in medieval Latin, where the term "procedere" meant to "go forward." Over time, it evolved to mean a legal process, particularly in common law jurisdictions.

Examples of Proceeding

1. In a civil proceeding, a plaintiff files a lawsuit against a defendant, and the parties engage in discovery to gather evidence before a trial.
2. In a criminal proceeding, a defendant is charged with a crime, and the prosecution must prove their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in a trial.
3. In a bankruptcy proceeding, a debtor files a petition to restructure or discharge their debts under federal court supervision.
4. In an administrative proceeding, a government agency may conduct hearings to enforce regulations or discipline individuals or organizations.
5. In an arbitration proceeding, parties agree to submit their dispute to a neutral arbitrator who makes a binding decision.

Legal Terms Similar to Proceeding

1. Litigation: The process of taking legal action in a court of law, particularly resolving disputes through lawsuits.
2. Trial: A legal proceeding where parties present evidence and arguments before a court or jury to determine liability or guilt.
3. Appeal: A legal proceeding where a higher court reviews the decision of a lower court to determine if the ruling was correct.