What term is the judge's ruling at the end of a case?

• A. Conviction
• B. Counterclaim
• C. Default
• D. Decision

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is the terminology for the court’s final ruling. The ruling a judge issues at the end of a case, deciding the outcome and what relief, if any, is granted, is called a decision. It’s the court’s determination on the merits of the claims and defenses. This is distinct from a conviction, which is a criminal finding of guilt; a counterclaim, which is a claim brought by a defendant against the plaintiff; and a default, which happens when a party fails to appear or respond and can lead to a default judgment rather than the general ruling being described as a “decision.” In practice, the decision may be followed by a judgment that formally implements the court’s ruling.