If you’re a business professional or otherwise involved in a court case, it’s important to have a working knowledge of legal terms like “nonsuit.” A nonsuit is a legal declaration in which one party in a civil case voluntarily withdraws their suit or claim against the other side. Such a move can be made during the case itself or afterwards.
When a Nonsuit Might Be Used
There are several reasons why a person might opt to file a nonsuit. In some cases, it might be a strategic move intended to buy more time and/or conduct additional research. In other cases, the plaintiff might realize that moving forward would be too costly to make the case worth pursuing. Often, a nonsuit might be the result of a settlement that both sides have agreed on.
Impact of a Nonsuit on the Court Case
When a nonsuit is filed, the entire court case is dismissed. Depending on the jurisdiction, the defendant might also be responsible for fees and costs due to the filing of the nonsuit. At the end of the day, it’s important to remember that the nonsuit does not necessarily mean that the plaintiff lost—just that they are no longer involved in the case.
Considerations When Filing a Nonsuit
Before opting to file for a nonsuit, it’s important to consider the potential implications on the case if it goes forward to trial. A judge might view a nonsuit as a sign of weakness and make a less favorable ruling on the issues being litigated. Therefore, it’s important to assess the pros and cons to make an educated decision. Done right, a nonsuit can help saves costs and allow for a more efficient resolution of the dispute.