Written by attorneys · grounded in primary & secondary sources — see below
A term denoting a person or thing that existed or held a status at an earlier time. It identifies a prior holder of an office, position, or relation without implying current status.
Sources & Authorities· 33 primary sources
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Cases
Statutes
How it applies
Common Examples
6
Quondam Trial Timing
After acquittal in a first prosecution, prosecutors charged Queenie Quinones with a second offense. The court examined whether the second offense had been consummated when the quondam trial began. Because the facts showed the conduct occurred later, the new charge proceeded.
Quondam Client Settlement
Quinton Quimby sought to settle a malpractice claim with his quondam client. The lawyer provided written advice about independent counsel and allowed time for consultation before completing the agreement.
Quondam Possessor Chattels
Quest Quail regained land from a prior occupant through self-help. When Quest attempted to remove the quondam possessor's tools left on the property, the court denied any privilege to convert those chattels.
After divorce, Quinlan Quezada's will left property to the quondam spouse. Upon remarriage the testator executed a codicil expressly reviving the earlier provision, restoring the bequest under the governing statute.
Quondam Canal Zone Seal
A deed bore a seal purporting to be that of the quondam Panama Canal Zone. The document was offered as self-authenticating evidence without further proof of its origin.
Quondam State Benefits
Quintina Qualls moved from one state to another and applied for welfare. The new state limited benefits to the level available in the quondam state during the first year of residence. The court struck down the restriction as violating the right to travel.
Common questions
Frequently Asked
3
How does the term quondam function in double-jeopardy analysis?+
It identifies the earlier prosecution whose outcome determines whether a later charge is barred. The timing of the second offense relative to the quondam trial is decisive under the cited statute.
When must a lawyer obtain independent-counsel advice from a quondam client?+
Before settling any malpractice claim or potential claim. The written disclosure and opportunity for separate advice are required even though the representation has ended.
Does a quondam possessor retain protection for chattels left on land?+
Yes. The current owner who regained possession by unprivileged means may not trespass upon or convert those chattels.
5 U.S. (1 Cranch) 137 (1803)Property
…In the first capacity his duty is to the United States or its citizens; in the other his duty is to the President. In the former capacity he is compellable by mandamus to do his duty; in the latter he is not. This distinction is pointed out by two acts of Congress upon this subject. The first act, passed 27 July…