Practical Legal Guidance
Judgment
A court's final statement of the grounds for its decision on the matters in issue, ordinarily followed by a decree.
Detailed Meaning
A judgment is the court's reasoned decision on the substantive matters in issue in a suit, petition, or appeal — the grounds on which the final order or decree is based. In civil proceedings a judgment is ordinarily followed by a formal decree drawn up in accordance with it; in criminal proceedings a judgment records the finding (conviction or acquittal) and, where relevant, the sentence.
Authoritative Sources & Provenance
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.