Courts and procedure
Settlement
When the parties resolve their dispute without a trial, usually by agreement and often with a payment, but generally without an admission of fault.[1]
In more detail
Mediation, settlement conferences and other ADR processes are designed to help parties settle.[2] The settlement is usually written down in a settlement agreement.
Varies by state
This is the federal courts' definition; state courts use the word the same way, though procedures differ by state. Find your state’s rules.
Related terms
- Settlement agreementThe written terms the parties agree to that resolve their dispute.
- Settlement conferenceA meeting where the parties and their lawyers try to settle with the help of an impartial person, often a judge or experienced lawyer, who may evaluate the case and suggest terms.
- MediationA process in which a neutral mediator helps the parties communicate and negotiate so they can reach their own voluntary agreement.
- DamagesMoney a defendant must pay a plaintiff who wins a civil case.
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Sources
The official documents this definition is based on, with the date we last read each one. Definitions are in our own words.
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MediationList. (2026, October 28). Settlement: Definition. https://mediationlist.com/glossary/settlement/
APA 7th ed. A retrieval date is included only for pages whose content changes, such as maps, data and tools.