ex parte
2 synonyms and 2 antonyms for ex parte, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Of a court application, hearing or order: made by or for one side only, without the other party present or notified.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
without notice
one-sided
Antonyms
inter partes
on notice
How to use ex parte
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
ex parte application
ex parte order
ex parte hearing
ex parte communication
Strictly legal. English civil courts now often prefer the plain phrase 'without notice', but ex parte remains standard in the US and in many other jurisdictions.
Etymology
Latin, literally 'from a part' or 'on behalf of one side'.
Full origin of ex parte →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between ex parte and inter partes?
An ex parte application is heard with only one side present, usually because there is no time to notify the other party or because warning them would defeat the purpose. An inter partes hearing has both sides represented and able to argue. Ex parte orders are normally short-lived and come back for a full hearing.
When can a court act ex parte?
Only in limited circumstances — typically genuine urgency, or where notice would let the other party destroy evidence, move assets or cause harm. The applicant owes a duty of full and frank disclosure, including facts that hurt their own case.
Why do old case names say 'Ex parte Smith'?
It signals that the proceedings were brought on the application of that person rather than against them, as in habeas corpus and judicial review cases. Modern English practice mostly uses 'R (on the application of Smith)' instead.
