The judgment in a lawsuit is the court’s final determination of the rights and obligations of the parties regarding the disputed matters. It describes the relief or recovery that one party should have from the other—whether in the form of money, ownership of disputed assets, or injunctive relief that requires a party to take a certain action (make mortgage payments or sell a piece of real or personal property) or refrain from taking an certain action (contacting another person by phone or email or coming within 100 feet of them).

The date on which the court signs the judgment usually triggers or begins the running of postjudgment deadlines such as for filing a notice of appeal of the judgment.

In Pennsylvania, a judgment in a lawsuit represents the court's final decision on the issues presented during the case. It establishes the rights and duties of the parties involved, detailing what one party is entitled to receive from the other, which could include monetary compensation, transfer of property, or specific performance such as making mortgage payments. Additionally, the judgment may impose prohibitions, like restraining a party from contacting someone or approaching a certain location. The date the judgment is entered by the court is critical as it starts the clock on various post-judgment timelines. For instance, it marks the beginning of the period within which a party must file a notice of appeal if they wish to challenge the court's decision. In Pennsylvania, the time frame for filing an appeal is typically 30 days from the date of the entry of the judgment. Failure to adhere to these deadlines can result in the loss of the right to appeal.