What "Pendente Lite" Means
"Pendente lite" is a Latin term meaning "while the litigation is pending." In a Maryland divorce or custody case, pendente lite (often shortened to "PL") refers to temporary relief a court puts in place to govern key issues until the case is resolved at the final merits trial.
What a Pendente Lite Hearing Decides
A pendente lite hearing is a focused, time-limited hearing that addresses the issues that need a temporary answer right away, including:
- Temporary child custody and access — a parenting schedule while the case proceeds
- Temporary child support
- Temporary alimony — see our pendente lite alimony overview
- Use and possession of the family home — who remains in the home for now
- Attorney's and expert fees — help with the cost of litigation in appropriate cases
What a Pendente Lite Hearing Cannot Do
A pendente lite hearing does not resolve your entire case and cannot finally divide or dispose of property. Those issues are decided later, at the final merits trial or through a settlement. Pendente lite relief is temporary — it holds the line until the court makes final decisions, and it can be modified if circumstances change.
How to Prepare for a Pendente Lite Hearing
Preparation makes a real difference in a short hearing. Generally that means having your financial statements complete and accurate, organizing documentation of income, expenses, and parenting involvement, and arriving with a clear, reasonable proposal for the temporary arrangements you're asking the court to order. Our attorneys prepare you for what to expect and present your position effectively.
Where Pendente Lite Fits in the Process
A pendente lite hearing happens early — after the case is filed and information is exchanged, but well before the final trial. For the full sequence, see our overview of the Maryland divorce process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does pendente lite mean? ▾
It is Latin for "while the litigation is pending." It refers to temporary court orders that stay in effect during a divorce or custody case, until the final judgment.
What is decided at a pendente lite hearing in Maryland? ▾
Typically temporary custody and access, child support, alimony, use and possession of the family home, and — in appropriate cases — contribution toward attorney's and expert fees. It does not finally divide property.
Is a pendente lite order permanent? ▾
No. Pendente lite orders are temporary by design. They govern the period while your case is pending and are replaced by the terms of your final judgment of absolute divorce.
Can a pendente lite order be changed? ▾
Yes. Because these orders are temporary and based on current circumstances, they can be modified if there is a significant change before the final trial.