What defines judgment in a legal context?

In a legal context, judgment refers to the formal decision made by a judge regarding the outcome of a case after considering the evidence and arguments presented. This decision reflects the judge's determination on the applicable law and how it should be applied to the facts of the case. It usually follows a jury's verdict in jury trials, but in bench trials (where a judge alone is the trier of fact), the judge itself makes findings of fact and applies the law to reach a judgment.

This process ensures that a legal ruling is grounded in the principles of law and that the rights of the parties involved are taken into account. The judgment is crucial as it effectively concludes the litigation process, determining not only the rights and obligations of the parties but also potentially guiding future conduct and possibly establishing precedents in legal interpretation.