The present invention is a gravity-sensitive latch. The latch includes a pendulum (300) pivotally secured between the actuating button (200) or handle (alternative embodiment) and the pawl (400). When the latch is in a first position, gravity acting on the pendulum rotates the pendulum so that it abuts the button or handle, permitting actuation of the latch. When the latch is in a second orientation, gravity acting on the pendulum rotates the pendulum away from the button or handle, thereby preventing actuation of the latch. The latch may use a wide variety of buttons, handles, or pawl/keeper combinations.