Nunc pro tunc is a Latin term meaning "now for then". It refers to a thing is done at one time which ought to have been performed at another. Permission must be sought from the court to do things nunc pro tunc. Often the judge will grant the nunc pro tunc order ex parte (with only the applicant appearing and without notice). An example would be if a court clerk failed to file an answer when he/she received it, and a nunc pro tunc date of filing is needed.