In legal terminology, what does the term "judgment" specifically refer to?

The term "judgment" in legal terminology specifically refers to a formal decision made by the judge regarding the outcome of a case. This decision is a crucial part of the judicial process, as it provides the resolution to the legal issues presented in a trial or hearing. A judgment typically includes the judge's findings on the facts of the case, the application of the law, and the final ruling. It can also outline any orders for relief or penalties that may be imposed as a result of the decision.

In contrast to this, an oral statement by the jury is typically referred to as a verdict, which is just one component that may lead to a judgment. A brief outlining legal arguments refers to written documents submitted during litigation to present legal reasoning, but does not constitute a decision itself. Similarly, a plea filed by the respondent is part of the pre-trial process in criminal or civil cases, where a party formally responds to charges or claims, rather than the culmination of those proceedings like a judgment is.