What does the term 'In re' mean in case captions?

• A. Regarding or in the matter of
• B. Ex parte
• C. Maritime case
• D. Admiralty proceeding

Answer: (A)

In re is a Latin phrase meaning “in the matter of” or “in regard to.” It appears in case captions to show the subject being addressed, not the parties involved. So a caption like “In re: Estate of Jones” signals the court is dealing with the estate matter itself. It’s about the issue at hand, not about one side suing another. This phrase isn’t about being ex parte (which means a proceeding with one party present) and it doesn’t designate a maritime or admiralty proceeding—the latter describe the type or jurisdiction of the case, while “in re” simply marks the matter under consideration.