What Is a Decree, and How Is It Different From a Judgment?

In legal terms, decree and judgment are both critical elements in the outcome of a case. While both involve a court’s decision, they have distinct meanings and purposes. Understanding the difference between the two is essential for interpreting the final resolution of a case.

What Is a Decree?

A decree is a formal order or decision issued by a court that resolves the issues presented in a case, especially in civil cases. It is the final decision that gives effect to the judgment, specifying the rights and obligations of the parties involved. A decree can be preliminary, final, or partially final, depending on the stage of the case and the nature of the decision.

• Preliminary Decree: A decree that does not finally dispose of the case but sets the stage for further action or proceedings, like determining the amount of damages.
• Final Decree: The conclusive decision that resolves the dispute and ends the legal proceedings between the parties.
• Partly Final Decree: A decree that resolves part of the case but leaves some matters pending.

What Is a Judgment?

A judgment is the formal expression of the court’s opinion or reasoning behind its decision. It outlines the court's conclusions regarding the case, including the facts, law, and principles applied. It is the reasoning that leads to the decree.

• Judgment is essentially the narrative or analysis provided by the judge that explains the outcome of the case.
• Judgment is not immediately enforceable; the enforcement typically occurs through the decree issued based on that judgment.

Key Differences Between Decree and Judgment:

Nature:

• Decree: A decree is a formal, actionable order passed by the court, detailing the final relief or action that is to be taken. It has a direct effect, specifying what the parties must do or refrain from doing.
• Judgment: A judgment is a reasoned explanation or statement by the court that precedes the decree. It discusses the facts, legal issues, and reasoning behind the court’s decision. It doesn’t directly impose relief, but rather justifies the decree.

Purpose:

• Decree: The decree is the court’s definitive resolution that enforces the judgment and may include directions for the execution of the decision (such as the payment of damages, delivery of property, or other actions required).
• Judgment: The judgment explains how the law applies to the facts and justifies why the decree is issued. It contains the reasoning behind the decision but does not itself execute the court's decision.

Issuance:

• Decree: A decree is passed after the judgment. It is an official document issued to give effect to the court’s decision and enforce its order.
• Judgment: A judgment is delivered first, and the decree follows as a formality to ensure the ruling is implemented.

Enforceability:

• Decree: A decree can be enforced by the court if the party does not comply with it. Enforcement could involve seizing property, garnishing wages, or other actions necessary to ensure compliance.
• Judgment: The judgment itself is not directly enforceable; it is the basis upon which the decree is issued. The judgment provides the reasoning for the final relief but does not prescribe the actions to be taken.

Applicability:

• Decree: Decrees are primarily found in civil cases, especially those involving disputes over property, contracts, and family matters. It represents the final directive of the court.
• Judgment: A judgment is found in both civil and criminal cases, serving as the narrative decision of the court regarding the outcome of the case.

Example:

Judgment:

In a civil dispute over property ownership, the judge may analyze the evidence, apply the law, and write a judgment that concludes that the defendant has no claim to the property.

Decree:

Based on the judgment, the judge issues a decree ordering the defendant to vacate the property and return it to the plaintiff. The decree also specifies any damages or compensation the defendant must pay.

Conclusion:

While both decrees and judgments are judicial decisions in legal proceedings, they serve different roles. The judgment is the reasoned explanation behind the court's decision, while the decree is the formal order that enforces the judgment. Understanding the distinction between the two helps clarify the judicial process and the steps required to implement a court’s decision.