Legal Definitions - respondeat ouster

Definition: Respondeat ouster is a Latin term that means "let him make further answer." It refers to an interlocutory judgment or order that requires a party who made a dilatory plea that has been denied to now plead on the merits.

Example: In a criminal case, if the defendant makes a plea that is deemed invalid, the judge may issue a respondeat ouster judgment, which requires the defendant to plead on the merits of the case rather than using a dilatory plea.

Explanation: The example illustrates how respondeat ouster is used in a criminal case. If a defendant tries to use a dilatory plea to delay the trial, the judge can issue a respondeat ouster judgment, which forces the defendant to address the actual charges against them. This ensures that the trial proceeds fairly and efficiently.