What does “without prejudice” mean?

Jasmine Weg

Jasmine Weg's Answer

Construction Lawnew york, USA9 years experience

Quick Answer

A case dismissed with prejudice is final and cannot be refiled, while a dismissal without prejudice allows for the possibility of re-filing in the future.

💡 Every situation is different. Speak with a lawyer to understand your specific options.

Key risks of waiting too long

Potential Risk

Risk of losing the ability to refile a case if dismissed with prejudice.

Potential Risk

Potential misunderstandings about the implications of dismissal terms.

Potential Risk

Not recognizing the strategic value of dismissals when negotiating settlements.

Full Transcript

Below is an AI-generated transcript of the video answer.

So imagine you're playing with magnet tiles and someone comes over and knocks down what you've done.

If you say, I'm done playing and I'm never doing this again, that's with prejudice.

But if you say, I'm done for now, but I might come back and play again later, that's without prejudice.

So in law, when a case is dismissed with prejudice, that means it's over. You can't bring it back.

But if it's dismissed without prejudice, you can try again later.