"Nunc pro tunc" is a Latin phrase which literally means "now for then."

California Courts are authorized to grant a judgment nunc pro tunc to correct clerical errors in recording a previous decision of the court. A nunc pro tunc order's function is merely to correct the record of the judgment and not to alter the judgment actually rendered. For example, if plaintiff sues three defendants and the judge grants judgment to plaintiff against all three of the defendants, but the clerk mistakenly enters into the record that plaintiff is awarded judgment only against one of the defendants, the court can enter a nunc pro tunc order to clarify this error in recording the judgment.

Where an error was made in rendering a judgment (rather than clerical error in recording the judgment render) it would be improper for the Court to enter a nunc pro tunc order on the matter. Rather, the aggrieved party may need to bring a motion for reconsideration, or to seek appellate review of the trial court's order, where appropriate.