judgment on the merits
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A final and binding court decision that resolves the substantive factual and legal claims of a case, based on the evidence and arguments presented. It is a judgment on the central issues of the lawsuit, as opposed to a dismissal on procedural grounds.
Usage
This term is used in legal contexts to specify the nature of a court's final ruling. It indicates that the court has evaluated the core facts and applicable law to reach a conclusive decision.
Examples
- The case was not dismissed; instead, the court entered a judgment on the merits after a full trial.
- A judgment on the merits has a preclusive effect, preventing the same claim from being litigated again.
- The plaintiff sought a judgment on the merits to finally resolve the dispute over the contract.
Advanced Usage
- "To be decided on the merits": Refers to a case being resolved by evaluating its substantive facts and law.
- The motion to dismiss was denied, so the lawsuit will now be decided on the merits.
Variants and Related Words
- Merits (n): The intrinsic rights and wrongs of a case, excluding procedural or technical points.
- The lawyer argued the merits of her client's position.
- Judgment as a matter of law (Related Concept): A binding judgment based on the application of law to undisputed facts.
- Summary judgment (Related Concept): A judgment on the merits granted before a full trial when there is no genuine dispute of material fact.
Synonyms
- Final judgment
- Decision on the merits
- Adjudication on the merits
Related Phrases
- On the merits: Concerning the substantive issues of a case.
- The court's opinion addressed the arguments on the merits.
Noun
- judgment rendered through analysis and adjudication of the factual issues presented