Res Judicata

Practical Law UK Glossary 2-242-7976 (Approx. 4 pages)

Glossary

Res Judicata

Also known in the US as claim preclusion. A Latin term meaning "a matter judged". This doctrine prevents a party from re-litigating any claim or defence (or issue) already litigated. The doctrine is meant to ensure the finality of judgments and conserve judicial resources by protecting litigants from multiple litigation involving the same claims or issues.

For more information about res judicata, and also the similar concept of abuse of process preventing re-litigation, see:

In the US, Practice Note, Commencing a Federal Lawsuit: Initial Considerations: Claim or Issue Preclusion May Bar Plaintiff's Claims.
In the UK, Practice note, Preventing subsequent litigation: res judicata and abuse of the court process.

End of Document

Resource ID 2-242-7976

Maintained

Resource Type Glossary

Jurisdictions

United Kingdom
USA (National/Federal)