When a court acts on its own initiative it is said to be acting:
A) de novo
B) amicus curiae
C) ex parte
D) sua sponte

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sua sponte refers to a court's ability to act on its own initiative, without being prompted by a party to the case. Therefore, option D is the best choice. Option A, de novo, refers to a complete review of a case, while option B, amicus curiae, refers to a brief submitted to a court by a non-party to the case who has an interest in the outcome. Option C, ex parte, refers to a proceeding where only one party is present or represented.

When a Court Acts on Its Own Initiative It Is