Legal Definitions - rescript

A rescript is a written order or decision that provides instructions on how to handle a legal case. It can be issued by a judge, an appellate court, a Roman emperor, or a Pope.

• A judge may issue a rescript to a court clerk explaining how to dispose of a case.
• An appellate court may send down a rescript to the trial court, which is a written decision that is usually unsigned.
• A Roman emperor or a Pope may issue a rescript in response to a legal inquiry or petition.

These examples illustrate how a rescript can be used in different legal contexts, such as in a trial court, an appellate court, or in ancient Rome or the Catholic Church.