The phrase signifies “now for then.” It refers to an action that is officially recorded, but with a retroactive effect. A common scenario involves correcting a clerical error in a court judgment. If a court realizes a mistake was made in documenting the original order, it may issue a corrected order with this designation, which takes effect as if the correction were made at the time of the original order.
This legal mechanism provides a way to rectify oversights and ensure accurate legal records. Its utility lies in preventing injustice that might arise from simple mistakes or delays in administrative processes. Historically, this legal principle provided a means to address discrepancies between what was intended and what was actually recorded, especially during times when record-keeping was less precise.
