Legal Definitions - result

In legal contexts, the term result refers to the final determination, resolution, or outcome reached at the conclusion of a legal proceeding, such as a lawsuit, trial, or arbitration. It encompasses the judgment, decision, verdict, or settlement that formally resolves the dispute or matter between the parties involved.

• Example 1: Civil Damages Award

  A homeowner sued a construction company for significant structural defects found in their newly built house. After a lengthy trial, the court issued a judgment ordering the construction company to pay the homeowner $250,000 to cover repair costs and diminished property value.

  Explanation: The court's judgment, which mandates the payment of $250,000 to the homeowner, is the result of the lawsuit. It is the definitive legal outcome that resolves the dispute over the construction defects.

• Example 2: Criminal Acquittal

  A defendant was on trial for a serious felony charge. After hearing all the evidence and arguments from both the prosecution and the defense, the jury deliberated for several days and ultimately returned a verdict of "not guilty."

  Explanation: The jury's "not guilty" verdict constitutes the result of the criminal trial. This outcome formally clears the defendant of the charges and concludes the legal proceedings against them.

• Example 3: Business Contract Settlement

  Two corporations were embroiled in a dispute over a complex intellectual property licensing agreement. Rather than proceeding to a full trial, their legal teams engaged in extensive negotiations and eventually reached an out-of-court settlement that included a revised licensing fee structure and a new confidentiality clause, which was then formally documented and signed by both parties.

  Explanation: The signed settlement agreement, detailing the revised terms and clauses, is the result of their legal dispute. Even though it avoided a trial, it represents the final, legally binding resolution of their contractual disagreement.