in limine

Latin phrase

in li·​mi·​ne in-ˈlē-mi-ˌne 

: on the threshold : as a preliminary matter

—used for motions regarding the admissibility of evidence brought up at a pretrial hearing

Legal Definition

in limine

1 of 2 adverb

in lim·​i·​ne

in-ˈli-mə-nē, -ˈlē-mi-nā

: at the beginning : as a preliminary matter

specifically : before a particular procedure or proceeding takes place

in limine

2 of 2 adjective

: of, relating to, or being a motion, petition, or order regarding the admissibility of evidence whose exclusion is sought especially on the ground that it is prejudicial

Etymology

Latin, on the threshold