1. The order or priority in place or time observed by or for persons of different statuses (such as political dignitaries) on the basis of rank during ceremonial events.
2. Generally, the act or state of going before something else according to some system of priorities.
3. Parliamentary law. The ranked priority that determines whether a motion is in order while another motion is pending, or whether a pending motion yields to another motion.
“There is a principle that determines the precedence of motions. The closer a motion is to final disposition of the matter under consideration, the lower it is in the order of precedence. The further removed the motion is from final disposition of the matter, the higher it is in the order of precedence.” National Conference of State Legislatures, Mason’s Manual of Legislative Procedure 6 (2000).
4. Parliamentary law. The priority in which a member is entitled to the floor.
— Also termed precedence in recognition; preference in being recognized.
5. The order in which persons may claim the right to administer an intestate’s estate. • The traditional order is (1) surviving spouse, (2) next of kin, (3) creditors, and (4) public administrator. [Cases: Executors and Administrators 17. C.J.S. Executors and Administrators § 34.]
