bill quia timet
Bill quia timet is derived from the Latin phrase “quia timet,” meaning “because he fears.” A bill quia timet grants a party equitable relief from the court for probable harm to their specific right or interest.
A bill quia timet is similar to an injunction; however, unlike an injunction, a bill quia timet only prevents future infringements of a right and cannot redress past infringements. Like an injunction, a bill quia timet requires a showing of no available and adequate alternative remedy.
Common reasons to petition for a bill quia timet include challenging the adequacy of the council (questioning whether a person is adequately represented by their attorney), preventing a contested will from taking effect, and resolving property disputes. In property law, a bill quia timet refers to a quiet title action.
[Last reviewed in March of 2025 by the Wex Definitions Team]
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