What is meant by res judicata?

The concept of res judicata refers to a legal doctrine that prevents the same issue from being relitigated once it has been resolved by a competent court. This principle aims to provide finality to judicial decisions, ensuring that once a court has adjudicated a case and rendered a verdict, the same parties cannot bring the same claims or issues back to court in future litigation. Essentially, it means that the final judgment in a dispute is conclusive and binding, protecting parties from the burden and expense of rehashing settled matters.

While option B highlights that a point formerly under dispute is now settled judicially, it does not capture the full essence of the doctrine, which emphasizes the prevention of retrial and the finality of decisions made in the court system. The focus on the settled nature of disputes is a key component of res judicata, as it assures that outcomes are respected and upheld.