NISI
nisi
(adjective) not final or absolute; “the decree is nisi and not absolute”
Source: WordNet® 3.1
Ni"si, conj. Etym: [L.]
Definition: Unless; if not.
Note: In legal proceedings, this word is used to indicate that any
order, etc., shall take effect at a given time, unless before that
time the order, etc., in modified, or something else is done to
prevent its taking effect. Continuance nisi is a conditional
continuance of the case till the next term of the court, unless
otherwise disposed of in the mean time. Nisi prius (Law), unless
before; -- a phrase applied to terms of court, held generally by a
single judge, with a jury, for the trial of civil causes. The term
originated in a legal fiction. An issue of fact being made up, it is,
according to the English practice, appointed by the entry on the
record, or written proceedings, to be tried by a jury from the county
of which the proceedings are dated, at Westminster, unless before the
day appointed (nisi prius) the judges shall have come to the county
in question (which they always do) and there try the cause. See In
banc, under Banc.
Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition