What is the doctrine of res judicata?

The doctrine of res judicata is a legal rule that once a lawsuit is brought to a conclusion with a final judgment, that decision cannot be challenged again later. This is true in all states in the United States, including California. The doctrine of res judicata is meant to prevent multiple lawsuits over the same issue, which could lead to conflicting or inconsistent rulings. The doctrine of res judicata applies to both criminal and civil cases. In California, four elements must be in place in order for the doctrine of res judicata to apply: 1) an identity of the thing sued for, 2) an identity of the cause of action, 3) a final judgment on the merits, and 4) an identity of the parties or their privies. The doctrine of res judicata may also be referred to as claim preclusion or, if the prior judgment was decided in another state, it may be known as full faith and credit. This is a doctrine of civil procedure, so its terms may vary from state to state. In California, the doctrine of res judicata is an important procedural tool for the judicial system, as it prevents multiple lawsuits over the same issue, promoting judicial efficiency and preventing inconsistent rulings.

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What is the doctrine of res judicata?

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