Plain-English Definition
Official information given to you about something happening in your case — a hearing date, a deadline, or a ruling. You have a right to receive notice.
Legal Meaning
Formal notification required by law to be given to a party about proceedings, deadlines, or orders. Notice is a fundamental requirement of due process. Parties must receive adequate notice to respond or participate.
Etymology Review
From Latin notitia, meaning knowledge or being known, from noscere, “to know.” Notice is information given so something becomes known.
Misuse Warning
Not receiving proper notice can be grounds to challenge a ruling. However, ignoring notices you did receive will not protect you from consequences.
Boundary Note
Lexicon provides general legal and procedural information for educational purposes. It does not provide legal advice, legal representation, legal interpretation for a specific case, strategy, document preparation, or professional judgment. Meanings can vary by jurisdiction, facts, and procedural posture.