Lis alibi pendens

Lis alibi pendens is a legal principle that prevents courts in different countries from simultaneously hearing the same case involving the same parties and the same claims. Its purpose is to avoid conflicting judgments and ensure judicial efficiency. When a case is filed in one country, and a similar case is initiated elsewhere, the second court can postpone or dismiss its proceedings if it recognizes lis alibi pendens. This doctrine promotes respect for legal proceedings already underway and helps maintain consistency and fairness across different jurisdictions.