Civil Procedure
Dismissal With Prejudice
A dismissal that ends the claim permanently and generally prevents the same claim from being filed again.
Plain-English definition
Dismissal with prejudice is final as to the dismissed claim. It usually means the plaintiff does not get another try in the same or another court. Courts use it after merits rulings, settlement terms, repeated pleading failures, or serious litigation misconduct.
How it works
A dismissal order or stipulation should say whether it is with prejudice. If the phrase is missing, the effect can depend on the rule, context, and jurisdiction.
Why it matters
This phrase is settlement and docket language with real consequences. It can convert a procedural event into a permanent loss of rights.
Related terms
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.
Collateral Estoppel
Also called issue preclusion. The doctrine that prevents re-litigating a specific issue that was actually decided in a prior case.
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.
Not legal advice. Definitions are for general reference. Consult an attorney before relying on any term in a real case.