Interlocutory

The examples and perspective in this article deal primarily with the English-speaking world and do not represent a worldwide view of the subject. You may improve this article, discuss the issue on the talk page, or create a new article, as appropriate. (December 2014) (Learn how and when to remove this message)

Interlocutory /ˌɪntərˈlɒkjəˌtɔːri/ is a legal term which can refer to an order, sentence, decree, or judgment, given in an intermediate stage between the commencement and conclusion of a cause of action, used to provide a temporary or provisional decision on an issue. Thus, an interlocutory order is not final and is not subject to immediate appeal.

In many U.S. legal systems, interlocutory orders are not appealable, save for in a few extraordinary cases.^[1] Interlocutory orders are orders that are issued by a court while a case is still ongoing, before the final resolution of the case.^[2] When the case is concluded, any aspect of an interlocutory order that has not become moot may be challenged in an appeal from the final judgment.^[3] However, in other legal systems, such as in England and Wales, in Hong Kong, and in Canada, interlocutory orders in civil matters can be appealed by leave of the appellate court. In criminal matters in Canada, the general rule is that there are no interlocutory appeals, except where Parliament has expressly provided. Australian courts and tribunals generally discourage appeals against interlocutory decisions.^[4]

In Scots law an "interlocutor" is an interlocutory order, that is, a legal order that is not the final decision in a case.^[5]