A Tale Of Due Process…

Although most people are familiar with the concept of "due process" in the criminal context, we sometimes forget that due process also extends to civil litigation. "Due process" is basically the opportunity to be heard at a "meaningful time and in a meaningful manner".

Typically, whenever a litigant is seeking relief from the Court, a motion must be filed, stating the time and place when it will be presented to the Court, the grounds upon which it is made and the relief sought. Although litigants may also seek emergent relief, notice must still be provided to the other party. While the notice requirement is not wholly inflexible, it may only be waived in circumstances where it can be shown that immediate and irreparable damage will likely result to the moving party before notice can be served/informally given and a hearing had thereon.