Res Judicata

rays joo-dih-KAH-tah

Latin: 'a thing decided.' The doctrine that a final judgment on the merits prevents the same parties from re-litigating the same claim.

Plain-English definition

Res judicata (also called claim preclusion) bars a party from re-filing claims that have already been decided in a prior lawsuit between the same parties. Three elements: (1) final judgment on the merits in the first action, (2) same parties or those in privity, (3) the claim was, or could have been, raised in the first action.

More in Latin / Legal Maxim

Pro Se

Latin: 'for oneself.' A litigant who represents themselves in court without an attorney.

Stare Decisis

Latin: 'to stand by things decided.' The principle that courts follow precedent established by earlier decisions of the same or higher court.

Not legal advice. Definitions are for general reference. Consult an attorney before relying on any term in a real case.