Lis pendens is a notice lenders use when they initiate a foreclosure sale. (c) NOTICE OF LIS PENDENS.These sample forms may be useful when filing documents for the civil and family courts. If you have any questions, consult an attorney. Lis Pendens is a legal term meaning "lawsuit pending" and serves as a public notice filed against a property involved in litigation. A lis pendens is the first filing made during the foreclosure process. Barron's Dictionary of Real Estate Terms defines Lis Pendens as Latin for suit pending. Next, provide a description of the real estate involved in the suit.