In Houston, Texas, an Order for Nonsuit and Dismissal without Prejudice refers to a legal document issued by a court that allows a plaintiff to voluntarily discontinue or dismiss a lawsuit without prejudice. This means that the plaintiff can potentially refile the lawsuit at a later time if they choose to do so. The Order for Nonsuit and Dismissal without Prejudice is commonly used when a plaintiff determines that pursuing the current lawsuit may not be in their best interest or if they have decided to focus on resolving the matter through alternative means, such as settlement negotiations or mediation. By obtaining this order, the plaintiff essentially withdraws their claims for the time being while preserving their right to bring the lawsuit again in the future, if necessary. It is important to note that there are different types of Order for Nonsuit and Dismissal without Prejudice, which may vary depending on the jurisdiction and specific circumstances of the case. Some common types include: 1. Voluntary Nonsuit: This type of dismissal is initiated by the plaintiff entirely at their own discretion and without the need for court approval. The plaintiff may request a voluntary nonsuit at any stage of the litigation process, before or after trial, as long as the defendant has not formally answered the lawsuit or obtained a judgment. 2. Order for Nonsuit and Dismissal without Prejudice: This type of dismissal requires a court order and is usually requested through a motion filed by the plaintiff. The court will review the motion and, if satisfied, will issue an order granting the dismissal without prejudice. 3. Statutory Nonsuit: In certain cases, state statutes may provide for an automatic dismissal without prejudice. These statutes typically specify the conditions under which a plaintiff can obtain a nonsuit without needing court approval. Regardless of the specific type, an Order for Nonsuit and Dismissal without Prejudice effectively halts the ongoing litigation without finality, allowing the plaintiff to refile the case at a later date, should they choose to do so. It is essential to consult with an attorney who is familiar with the local rules and procedures to navigate through the process and ensure compliance with all legal requirements.