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 Virginia, a judgment in a lawsuit is the court's final decision on the matters in dispute between the parties. It establishes the rights and obligations of each party and specifies the type of relief granted, which may include monetary compensation, transfer of asset ownership, or injunctive relief—orders to do or not do specific actions. Once the court signs the judgment, it becomes enforceable, and certain time-sensitive actions are triggered. For example, the signing date of the judgment typically starts the clock on the deadline for filing a notice of appeal. This deadline is crucial for any party considering an appeal, as missing it can result in the loss of the right to appeal the court's decision. It's important for parties to be aware of these deadlines and to consult with an attorney if they wish to appeal the judgment or have questions about their post-judgment rights and obligations.