Court Reporter Practice Exam 2026 - Free Court Reporter Practice Questions and Study Guide

"Lis pendens" translates from Latin to "pending lawsuit" and is a term used in legal contexts to indicate that a legal action has been filed that affects a specific piece of property. When a lis pendens is recorded, it serves as a public notice to all parties that any interest in the property is subject to the outcome of the pending litigation. This is significant because it alerts potential buyers or creditors that the property is the subject of ongoing legal proceedings, thereby affecting their rights in relation to that property.

The concept of a closed case, adjudicated matter, or dismissed action does not apply in this context. Those terms relate to cases that have been resolved in some manner, whereas "lis pendens" specifically refers to legal proceedings that are still active and unresolved. Therefore, understanding the term "lis pendens" is crucial for anyone involved in legal transactions involving property, as it directly impacts the rights and responsibilities of the parties involved.