What does dispositive mean in legal terms Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈdɪspəzɪtɪv/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A decision or ruling that settles a dispute or controversy, and is conclusive or final, as opposed to an advisory opinion.

Examples

• The judge’s dispositive ruling put an end to the long-standing lawsuit.
• The court’s dispositive order spelled out the terms of the settlement.

Synonyms

• Conclusion
• Decision
• Verdict

Antonyms

• Advisory
• Hypothetical
• Preliminary

Additional Information

In legal contexts, a dispositive ruling is often considered a final and binding decision that puts an end to the dispute or controversy. It is typically contrasted with non-dispositive rulings, which may be preliminary or advisory in nature. A dispositive ruling can be made at various levels of the court system, including trial courts, appellate courts, and even the highest courts in the land.

Dispositive rulings can be made based on a range of factors, including the interpretation of statutes, constitutional provisions, or prior court decisions. The impact of a dispositive ruling can be far-reaching, as it can set precedent for future cases and establish important principles of law.

As a result, dispositive rulings are often subject to close scrutiny and analysis by legal scholars and practitioners. They can also be influential in shaping the broader legal landscape and informing public policy debates.

Etymology

The word “dispositive” comes from the Latin “disponendi,” meaning “to dispose” or “to decide.” It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe a decision or ruling that settles a controversy or dispute.

Usage Notes

In legal contexts, “dispositive” is often used in formal documents, such as court decisions, briefs, and opinions. It can also be used in more informal settings, such as conversations and discussions about legal issues.

Cultural References

Dispositive rulings have been featured in popular culture, such as in films and television shows that depict legal proceedings and courtrooms.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

No idiomatic expressions or phrases currently exist that feature the word “dispositive.”

Related Words or Phrases

• Advisory
• Binding
• Certainty
• Finality
• Formal

Collocations

• dispositive ruling
• dispositive decision
• dispositive order

Frequency of Use

The word “dispositive” is relatively rare in everyday language, but it is commonly used in legal and academic contexts.

Common Misspellings

• disputeive
• desivative
• disposative