What Is a Judgment of Retraxit and Its Legal Consequences?

Definition & Meaning

A judgment of retraxit is a legal ruling that occurs when a plaintiff voluntarily withdraws their lawsuit. This judgment effectively bars the plaintiff from bringing the same claim again in the future. In other words, once a judgment of retraxit is issued, the plaintiff cannot relitigate the matter.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A person files a lawsuit for breach of contract but later decides to withdraw the claim. The court issues a judgment of retraxit, preventing them from filing another lawsuit for the same breach.

Example 2: A plaintiff in a personal injury case withdraws their action due to a settlement agreement. The court then issues a judgment of retraxit, which bars them from pursuing the same injury claim in the future.

State-by-state differences

State Notes
California Judgment of retraxit is recognized, preventing relitigation of the same claim.
New York Similar provisions exist, but specific procedural rules may vary.
Texas Judgment of retraxit applies, but the process may differ slightly in execution.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Dismissal without prejudice A court order that ends a case but allows the plaintiff to refile in the future. Unlike a judgment of retraxit, this allows for future litigation on the same claim.
Judgment on the merits A final decision by a court based on the evidence presented. A judgment of retraxit does not involve a decision on the merits of the case.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you find yourself in a situation where a judgment of retraxit may apply, consider the following steps:

  • Consult with a legal professional to understand your rights and options.
  • If you are withdrawing a claim, ensure that you understand the implications of a judgment of retraxit.
  • You may explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you manage the legal process effectively.

Quick facts

  • Typical fees: Varies by jurisdiction and case complexity.
  • Jurisdiction: Applicable in civil court cases.
  • Possible penalties: None directly associated, but bars future claims.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It is a ruling that occurs when a plaintiff withdraws their lawsuit, preventing future claims on the same issue.