Select your state

Civil procedure

res judicata and collateral estoppel

Res judicata is the generic term for a group of related concepts concerning the conclusive effects given final judgments. Within this general doctrine there are two principal categories: (1) claim preclusion—also known as res judicata; and (2) issue preclusion—also known as collateral estoppel.

These legal doctrines generally preclude litigants from relitigating claims and issues that were previously litigated to a final resolution or judgment.

In Maryland, res judicata, also known as claim preclusion, prevents a party from relitigating a claim that has been previously adjudicated by a competent court and has reached a final judgment. This doctrine ensures that a party cannot bring an action involving the same claim after it has been decided upon in a prior case. Similarly, issue preclusion, or collateral estoppel, bars the relitigation of specific issues that were already determined in a previous lawsuit. For issue preclusion to apply, the issue must have been actually litigated, determined by a valid and final judgment, and essential to the prior judgment. These principles are designed to promote judicial efficiency, maintain consistency in court decisions, and protect parties from the burden of multiple lawsuits on the same matter. Maryland courts uphold these doctrines to ensure the finality of judgments and to prevent legal disputes from being relitigated indefinitely.

Legal Articles

State Statutes

Individual & Family Legal Plan

As a LegalFix member, you'll get expert legal services from a local law firm that treats you like an important client. Don't wait—be prepared for life's inevitable legal challenges starting today. And ask your employer, credit union, or membership group about preferred pricing opportunities.

Civil procedure

res judicata and collateral estoppel

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Maryland State Code

Maryland State Code

Civil procedure

res judicata and collateral estoppel

Articles