A judgment of nonsuit is a legal ruling that occurs when a plaintiff is absent from court during a scheduled hearing or trial. This judgment essentially dismisses the case without a trial because the plaintiff did not appear to present their claims. However, it is important to note that a judgment of nonsuit does not prevent the plaintiff from re-filing the same case in the future.
This term is primarily used in civil litigation. A judgment of nonsuit can arise in various legal contexts, including personal injury cases, contract disputes, and other civil actions. It is essential for plaintiffs to understand that if they fail to bring their case to trial in a timely manner or do not appear in court, they risk having their case dismissed. Users can manage some aspects of this process through legal forms provided by platforms like US Legal Forms.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
(hypothetical example) A plaintiff files a personal injury lawsuit but misses the court date due to a scheduling conflict. The defendant requests a judgment of nonsuit, and the court grants it, dismissing the case. The plaintiff can later choose to re-file the lawsuit.
| State | Notes |
|---|---|
| California | A plaintiff may be required to show good cause for their absence to avoid a nonsuit. |
| New York | Judgments of nonsuit may also be referred to as dismissals for failure to prosecute. |
| Texas | In Texas, a nonsuit can be filed voluntarily by the plaintiff before the trial begins. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Judgment of Nonsuit | A dismissal of a case due to the plaintiff's absence. |
| Dismissal with Prejudice | A dismissal that prevents the plaintiff from re-filing the case. |
| Dismissal without Prejudice | A dismissal that allows the plaintiff to re-file the case in the future. |
If you receive a judgment of nonsuit, you may consider re-filing your case. It is advisable to consult with a legal professional to understand your options and ensure you meet all necessary deadlines. Additionally, you can explore US Legal Forms for templates that can assist you in managing your case effectively.
Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.
You can re-file your case, but it is important to do so within the applicable time limits.