summary judgment

American  

[suhm-uh-ree juhj-muhnt] / ˈsʌm ə ri ˌdʒʌdʒ mənt /

noun

Law.

1. a judgment that is entered without the necessity of jury trial, as one based on affidavits that convince the court that there is no arguable issue.

   The creditor filed a motion for summary judgment against the debtor.

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Etymology

Origin of summary judgment

First recorded in 1795–1800

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

summary judgment

The arguments heard were for summary judgment, which means both sides agree on the facts but disagree on how the law applies to those facts.

From Salon ● Jul. 28, 2025

A federal district court granted summary judgment to Felix, removing the question of whether the shooting was reasonable from a jury and declaring the killing legally justified as a matter of law.

From Slate ● Apr. 15, 2025

Sokol filed another motion for summary judgment in May 2024.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 29, 2024

Although the judge ruled that he would be forced to testify, the parties eventually asked for a summary judgment, so that the case would not have to go to a full trial.

From BBC ● Sep. 4, 2024

In 1191, Philip Augustus, before starting for Palestine, established bailiwicks, which held their assizes once a month; during their sitting they heard all those who had complaints to make, and gave summary judgment.

From Manners, Customs, and Dress During the Middle Ages and During the Renaissance Period by Jacob, P. L.