New York State Private Investigator Practice Exam

What is a judgment in legal terms?

1. The final ruling made by a jury

2. The official decision of a court on the claims of parties in litigation

3. The filing of charges against an individual

4. An informal agreement between parties

The correct answer is: The official decision of a court on the claims of parties in litigation

A judgment in legal terms refers to the official decision of a court regarding the claims presented by the parties involved in litigation. This decision encapsulates the court's findings and its determinations on the issues in dispute, concluding the legal proceedings for that particular case. Judgments can result in various outcomes, including the awarding of damages, injunctions, or other types of relief as deemed appropriate by the court. The definition aligns closely with the legal process, where the judgment serves as a definitive statement of the rights and obligations determined by the court after considering the evidence, arguments, and applicable laws. This is fundamental to the judicial system, as it establishes finality to disputes and provides a framework for enforcement of the resolution. In contrast, the other options represent different legal concepts. The final ruling made by a jury pertains to the jury's role in a trial, which is one component of the litigation process but does not encompass the broader concept of a judgment as pronounced by the court. The filing of charges against an individual refers to criminal procedure rather than civil litigation. Lastly, an informal agreement between parties would be more reflective of a settlement or contract, which does not carry the formal weight or authority of a judicial judgment.