judgments

Judgment is a formal decision issued by a court or judge that resolves a dispute and determines the rights and obligations of the parties involved. It is the official expression of the court's ruling and can require one party to perform or refrain from certain actions, or to pay damages or costs. In civil litigation, judgments typically follow a trial or the resolution of a motion and mark the culmination of the court’s adjudication.

Judgments can be final, concluding the case on the merits; or intermediate, addressing specific issues before a final resolution. They can also be declaratory, recognizing the rights of parties without ordering particular relief. Special forms include default judgments, entered when a party fails to respond; and summary judgments, granted when there is no genuine dispute of material fact and the movant is entitled to judgment as a matter of law.

A jury verdict is the fact-finding decision; the judgment then formalizes the legal effect based on the verdict and applicable law. Judges may issue or amend judgments, or enter consent judgments based on settlement. In some systems, a judgment notwithstanding the verdict may be available if the jury’s finding is clearly unsupported. Post-trial motions, such as for a new trial or to alter or amend the judgment, can also affect the outcome.

Enforcement follows entry: judgments may be enforced through collection measures such as wage garnishment, liens, or executions. Some judgments accrue interest over time, and many jurisdictions permit appeals, which can stay enforcement in certain circumstances. The availability, form, and procedure for judgments vary by legal system and jurisdiction.