What does the legal term 'res judicata' mean?

The term 'res judicata' is a Latin phrase that translates to "the thing has been decided." This legal concept is fundamental in the justice system, as it asserts that once a court has issued a final verdict on a matter, the same parties cannot litigate the same issue again in future cases. The purpose of res judicata is to bring closure to disputes and ensure that legal decisions are respected and upheld, fostering stability and consistency in the law.

The concept emphasizes the importance of finality in legal proceedings, reducing the likelihood of endless litigation over the same issue. Therefore, when a decision is arrived at and becomes final, it prevents the same issue from being re-examined in court, thereby conserving judicial resources and maintaining the integrity of the legal system.