Legal Definitions - parte non comparente

Definition: Parte non comparente refers to a party who did not appear in court for a legal case. In civil cases, if a party fails to appear, the court may issue a default judgment against the defendant. However, in criminal cases, the accused's failure to appear does not automatically mean they are guilty. Instead, they may be cited for contempt and become an outlaw.

Examples: If someone is sued in a civil case and fails to show up to court, the judge may rule in favor of the other party by default. In a criminal case, if the accused fails to appear in court, they may be held in contempt and become an outlaw, meaning they are no longer protected by the law and can be arrested on sight.