Practical Legal Guidance

Decree

The formal expression of a court's final adjudication conclusively determining the rights of the parties.

Detailed Meaning

A decree conclusively determines the rights of the parties with regard to the matters in controversy in a suit, and may be preliminary or final. It is distinguished from an 'order', which disposes of procedural matters, and from a 'judgment', which contains the grounds for the decision.

Authoritative Sources & Provenance

Relevant Legislation

  • The Code of Civil Procedure, 1908

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a decree and an order?

A decree conclusively determines the rights of the parties on the matters in controversy in a suit, while an order is a formal expression of a court's decision that does not amount to a decree — the distinction affects, among other things, appeal rights.

Related Concepts

General legal information for reference only, reviewed for accuracy but not a substitute for advice from a qualified advocate on your specific facts.

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