What Is the Difference Between Urgent and Ordinary Lawsuits in Saudi Arabia?
When someone seeks to protect their right or prevent imminent harm, a key legal question arises: Should they file an urgent lawsuit or a regular lawsuit? In this article, we explain the distinction between the two, when each is appropriate, and how the Saudi legal system handles them.
What Is an Ordinary Lawsuit?
An ordinary lawsuit involves the claim of a substantive right, such as:
- Claiming a financial debt.
- Requesting contract termination.
- Child custody, alimony, or ownership disputes.
These lawsuits usually require multiple hearings and take more time. Appeals may be submitted to the Court of Appeals after the initial ruling.
What Is an Urgent (Summary) Lawsuit?
An urgent lawsuit is filed to obtain temporary or precautionary relief to prevent harm or preserve a right. Examples include:
- Travel bans for a party in dispute.
- Requesting to freeze an administrative decision.
- Documenting the current condition of an asset.
- Preventing the sale of real estate or financial assets.
These rulings do not resolve the core dispute but serve as interim protection until the main case is resolved.
What Are the Conditions for Filing an Urgent Lawsuit?
- A real or imminent risk of harm.
- Irreparable consequences if no immediate action is taken.
- Not affecting the essence of the right—only temporary measures.
Who Handles Urgent Cases?
The Urgent Matters Judge at the relevant court (general or specialized). A ruling may be issued within 24–72 hours depending on the urgency.
Is Notification Required Before an Urgent Judgment?
Not always. In non-critical cases, the defendant may be notified first. In extreme situations, a ruling may be issued immediately, with notification afterward.
Practical Examples of Urgent Lawsuits:
- A mother requests a travel ban on the father to prevent him from leaving with the children.
- A partner asks the court to freeze access to company accounts.
- A landlord wants to document tenant damage immediately.
Can Urgent Judgments Be Appealed?
Yes, but since they are temporary, the appeal does not stop the progress of the original case. Appeals are processed faster than ordinary appeals.
When to Use an Ordinary Lawsuit Instead?
When seeking a final decision, such as compensation, enforcement of a contract, or a debt claim. In these cases, a regular lawsuit is the proper channel.
Legal Warning:
Filing an urgent claim does not eliminate the need to file the original case. It only serves to preserve the right temporarily.
Legal Summary:
Urgent lawsuits offer temporary protection, while ordinary lawsuits resolve the main legal dispute. If you’re facing an emergency legal issue, consult a lawyer immediately to act before it’s too late.
Also read:
Statute of Limitations in Legal Claims
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