The phrase “on the merits” is commonly used in the legal profession. It essentially means a decision has been taken after careful consideration of the facts or merits of a particular case or situation. In other words, a decision is made after an analysis of the evidence presented and deliberation on the relevant legal principles.
Put simply, an adjudication on the merits means a decision was based on the merits of the case rather than any other factors such as faulty procedure, legal technicalities, or bias. It implies that a decision was made objectively rather than subjectively. It is a method used to maintain fairness in the judicial process.
An Example of How “On the Merits” Is Used
In recent news, the New York Times reported that a federal appeals court ruled President Donald Trump’s executive order limiting immigration on the merits of the case. This means the court made a decision to uphold or reject the executive order based on the merits of the case. The court examined the reasons given by the Trump administration in issuing the executive order, and weighed them against the potential harms it could cause in order to make a decision.
This example illustrates how the phrase “on the merits” is used in a real-life legal setting. In essence, it implies that a decision was made objectively and fairly, after careful consideration of all of the evidence presented.
Conclusion
Overall, the phrase “on the merits” is a legal term which indicates a decision was made objectively after considering the evidence presented in a particular case. Understanding the concept of an adjudication on the merits is important for legal professionals to ensure fairness and objectivity while evaluating cases.