What is in suspense is considered as not existing during such suspense.

Explanation

(English-origin maxim.) A right, title, or obligation that is contingent or undetermined has no present legal effect — it cannot be enforced, transferred, or relied upon until the condition resolves.

Where this applies

• A buyer places a deposit on a house contingent on obtaining a mortgage, and until the mortgage is approved or denied, neither party can enforce the sale because the contingent contract has no present legal effect.
• A beneficiary is named in a will that is subject to a pending legal challenge, and until the challenge is resolved, the beneficiary cannot claim the inheritance because the bequest is in suspense.
• A conditional pardon is issued but its conditions have not yet been met, and the prisoner cannot claim release because the pardon is not yet operative.