Tender

What tender means

In practice, you will see tender 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 tender 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: Legal tender.

How to research the term

To research tender, 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 current federal court rules online for free.

Related legal terms

• Sustained: the judge's ruling agreeing with an objection. When an objection to a question is sustained, the witness does not answer it; when an objection to evidence is sustained, the evidence is excluded or, if already heard, may be stricken.
• Tacit agreement: an agreement shown by the parties' conduct rather than by words. In contract law, it is called an implied-in-fact contract: for example, a patient who asks a doctor for treatment impliedly agrees to pay for it. It is enforceable like an express contract if the conduct shows mutual assent.
• Tacit procuration: authority to act for another that is implied from conduct or silence, rather than given expressly.
• Temporary restraining order: a short-term emergency order to prevent immediate and irreparable harm before a hearing can be held.

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.