Equitable relief

What equitable relief means

In short, equitable relief is a term you will meet in court papers, rules and legal research. The definition above gives its usual meaning in American civil practice. However, the exact meaning can depend on the rule, statute or court decision that uses it. So it helps to read the term in context.

Where equitable relief comes up

For example, the term appears in these procedures:

• Motion for a Preliminary Injunction (Fed. R. Civ. P. 65(a)): a request for an order that preserves the situation while the case is decided.

How to research the term

To research equitable relief, begin with the rule, statute or contract where the word is used. Each one can give it a slightly different meaning. Then compare that text with how courts in your area have applied it. Also check the local rules of your court, since they can add requirements. If your case is in state court, the state rules control. So start with our state procedures guide to find them. In the end, always confirm that the source you rely on is current.

You can read the official rule text online for free.

Related legal terms

• Preliminary injunction: an order issued during a case, after notice, to preserve the situation until the case is decided.
• Injunction: a court order requiring a party to do or stop doing something.
• Equity: the body of law, historically administered by courts of chancery, that provides remedies such as injunctions and specific performance.

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.