Civiliter mortuus
Civiliter mortuus: Latin for "civilly dead." Black's Law Dictionary (2d ed. 1910) defines it as "Civilly dead; dead in the view of the law." It describes a living person who is in a state of civil death, meaning the law treats him or her as dead for purposes of civil rights. See civil death.
What civiliter mortuus means
In practice, you will see civiliter mortuus in pleadings, motions, orders and court rules. The definition above explains the general meaning. Even so, the meaning can shift with context. Therefore, always read it alongside the rule or document where it appears.
Where civiliter mortuus comes up
The term is used across many kinds of cases. For example, you may see it in pleadings, motions and court orders. To see it in context, browse the motions and procedures library or the Learn the Law topics.
Read the source: Civil death.
How to research the term
First, read the term where it actually appears. A rule, statute or court decision may define it for its own purposes. Next, check whether your court has a local rule that uses civiliter mortuus in a special way. Then look at recent decisions from courts in your jurisdiction. They show how judges apply the term today. Also, remember that state law can differ from federal law. For that reason, use our state procedures guide to find your state’s rules. Finally, confirm every source is current before you rely on it.
You can read the current federal court rules online for free.
Related legal terms
- Church: a religious body or congregation and, in law, the organization through which it holds property and runs its affairs.
- Citizen: a member of a nation or state who owes it allegiance and is entitled to its protection. Under the Fourteenth Amendment, all persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to its jurisdiction, are citizens of the United States and of the state where they reside.
- Civil death: the loss of civil rights and legal capacities while a person is still alive.
- Civilian: a person who is not a member of the armed forces.
Why precise terms matter
Legal words often look like everyday words, but they can carry a precise meaning. Because of that, a small misreading can change how you understand a deadline, a duty or a right. Our glossary keeps each definition short and links it to the procedures where it matters.
Sources
Sources last reviewed: 2026-10-24
Lawtopolis provides legal information and education, not legal advice. Using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws and court rules vary by jurisdiction and change over time; verify every authority against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction about your situation.