Lexipedia

Novae

Novae are new facts or evidence introduced after the ordinary stage for presenting allegations and proof has passed.

In Swiss civil procedure, *novae* refers to new factual allegations or new evidence submitted after the usual time for presenting them. Procedural rules distinguish between genuinely new matters that arose or became available only later and matters that existed earlier but were not presented in time. Admission depends on diligence, timing and the applicable stage of the proceedings, especially on appeal where restrictions are stricter. The concept protects procedural efficiency and equality of arms while allowing the court to consider relevant developments when fairness requires it.