Civil Procedure
Collateral Estoppel
Also called issue preclusion. The doctrine that prevents re-litigating a specific issue that was actually decided in a prior case.
Plain-English definition
Collateral estoppel (issue preclusion) is the narrower cousin of res judicata. It bars a party from re-litigating an issue that was actually decided in an earlier action — even if the second case involves a different claim — provided the issue was actually litigated, necessarily decided, and the party against whom it's invoked had a full and fair chance to be heard.
More in Civil Procedure
Amended Complaint
A revised complaint that changes, adds, or clarifies allegations, parties, or claims after the original complaint was filed.
Answer
The defendant's formal written response to the plaintiff's complaint, admitting or denying each allegation.
Class Certification
The judicial decision to allow a lawsuit to proceed as a class action on behalf of similarly-situated plaintiffs.
Complaint
The initial pleading filed by the plaintiff that starts a civil lawsuit.
Consolidation
Combining related cases for coordinated management, discovery, hearings, or trial.
Counterclaim
A claim brought by a defendant against the plaintiff within the same lawsuit.
Crossclaim
A claim by one party against a co-party, such as one defendant suing another defendant in the same case.
Default
A clerk or court entry showing that a party failed to plead, defend, or otherwise respond as required.
Not legal advice. Definitions are for general reference. Consult an attorney before relying on any term in a real case.