Principal judgment is the amount specified in a court order that a debtor must pay, excluding any interest or additional fees. It represents the base sum that is owed following a legal decision, serving as the foundation for any further financial obligations that may arise from the judgment.
This term is commonly used in various areas of law, including civil, family, and commercial law. In civil cases, for example, principal judgment refers to the core amount that a party is ordered to pay after a court ruling. Users can often manage the related forms and procedures themselves using templates provided by resources like US Legal Forms, which are drafted by qualified attorneys.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
(Hypothetical example) A court orders a defendant to pay $10,000 in principal judgment for damages incurred by the plaintiff. This amount does not include any interest or legal fees that may accrue over time.
| State | Principal Judgment Considerations |
|---|---|
| California | May allow for additional fees to be included in the judgment if specified. |
| New York | Interest may begin accruing immediately after the judgment is entered. |
| Texas | Principal judgment is strictly the base amount unless otherwise ordered. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Judgment | The final decision made by a court. | Principal judgment refers specifically to the monetary amount owed. |
| Interest | The additional amount charged for late payment. | Principal judgment does not include interest. |
| Fees | Additional charges related to legal proceedings. | Principal judgment excludes any fees. |
If you are involved in a case where principal judgment is relevant, it's essential to understand the amount you owe and any potential interest or fees that may apply. You can use US Legal Forms to find templates that help you navigate your obligations. If the situation is complex, consider seeking professional legal assistance.
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Only the base amount ordered by the court; it does not include interest or fees.