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Adjudication comes from the Latin adjūdicāre, which translates to "to judge." The term is used in many different industries, such as law, each with its specific definition. However, in law jargon, adjudication also means a few other things.
As a legal attorney, I will explain what adjudication is and how it is used within the legal system.
Quick Summary
- Adjudication is a court-like process determining parties' legal rights in a dispute or case.
- Adjudication is a trial without a jury or judge and can be used in civil and criminal law cases.
- Money-related disputes and non-violent infractions are typically the types of cases that are heard in an adjudication setting.
What Is Adjudication?
An adjudication is a legal ruling, judgment, or decision. It can also refer to settling a legal case or claim through the state court system [1].
More often than not, adjudication is the last word on a case that will show what needs to happen next regarding the matter.
Beyond legal procedures, though, adjudication can also refer more generally to other formal decision-making processes, such as when an insurance company upholds or denies a claim.
In an adjudication setting, the type of cases that are typically heard revolve around disputes concerning money or non-violent infractions.
Regardless of the legal matter, all decisions rendered in the adjudication process will ultimately settle the distribution of rights and obligations for the parties involved.
Types of Adjudication You Might Face
Understanding the different types of adjudication can help individuals navigate legal processes effectively.
Below are the primary adjudication categories, including civil, administrative, and criminal cases, definitions, timelines, and potential outcomes.
1. Civil Cases
Insurance Claims: In this context, an insurance company evaluates and decides on your claim for coverage or compensation.
- Timeline: The insurance company typically takes 30-60 days to process.
- Result: The outcome can either be payment of the claim or a denial based on the terms of the policy.
Contract Disputes: A judge or arbitrator examines the validity of a contract and any alleged violations.
- Timeline: The average duration for resolving contract disputes is about 3-6 months.
- Result: Possible outcomes include a monetary award to one party or dismissal of the case.
2. Administrative
Government Benefits: A government agency assesses your eligibility for benefits such as unemployment, disability, or social security.
- Timeline: The decision process can range from 30-120 days, depending on the case's complexity.
- Result: The agency will either approve or deny your application for benefits.
Professional Licensing: A licensing board reviews your qualifications to determine if you meet the standards required for professional practice (e.g., medical, legal, teaching).
- Timeline: This process usually takes about 60-90 days.
- Result: The outcome may result in either approval or denial of your professional license.
3. Criminal
Juvenile Cases: In juvenile court, the focus is on determining guilt and formulating a rehabilitation plan rather than punishment.
- Timeline: The timeline for juvenile cases varies significantly by state and specific circumstances.
- Result: Possible outcomes include a rehabilitation plan tailored to the juvenile's needs or imposition of penalties such as probation or detention.
Whether dealing with civil disputes, administrative matters, or criminal charges, being informed about processes, timelines, and potential outcomes can empower individuals to make better decisions regarding their legal situations.
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The Adjudication Process
Specific regulations guide the adjudication process, in which the initiating party, or "trier," presents the facts of a case and identifies the relevant laws [2].
This method is commonly used in cases where a quicker resolution is needed, making it especially useful for disputes in commercial or construction contexts.
Generally, the adjudicator’s decision is final, although there may be limited options for appeal depending on the case details.
The process typically follows this timeline:
- Initial Filing: Day 1
- Response Period: 14-30 days
- Evidence Submission: 30-60 days
- Decision: 60-90 days
Note: These timelines can vary based on jurisdiction and the case’s complexity.
A notice of adjudication, which initiates the process, includes information about the nature of the dispute, where and when it arose, and the legal relief sought. While this format is common, there are no mandatory requirements for structuring these notices.
Once a notice is served, an adjudicator is appointed to oversee the case. The adjudicator then notifies the defendant of the upcoming hearing, allowing the defense to submit arguments explaining why the claim should not be upheld. After both parties present their cases, the adjudicator makes a final ruling to resolve the dispute.
In short, adjudication provides a more streamlined, time-efficient alternative to traditional litigation, offering clear and enforceable resolutions in a significantly shorter period.
Who Is Involved In The Adjudication Process?
The person involved in the adjudication process is a neutral individual, judge, or jury who needs to make a solemn, official decision and is in charge of looking at evidence or facts to give a judgment that will be upheld by law.
In most instances, adjudication is binding and does not necessitate a jury to decide in a civil court trial. During the adjudication process, once all the proof has been given to the presiding official, then the judge will adjudicate the case.
Many people prefer this legal method since it is much quicker and less costly than going to state courts.
An adjudicator will likely settle disagreements between people involved in an adjudicatory process. Adjudicative proceedings are usually cheaper and shorter, but they aren't always as fair.
"To adjudicate also refers to the judicial decision itself. The doctrine of former adjudication determines the effects of a judgment. Under this doctrine, a final judgment in a prior action serves to bar re-litigation of the issues relevant to that determination"
- Legal Information Institute
This is because the facts are looked at less carefully and without as much compassion when compared to a court trial by judge and jury.
A mediator will mainly help warring parties find a middle ground, but they can't make either side comply or compromise.
On the other hand, the legal adjudication process and any settlements or punishments it reaches are binding by law, meaning both sides have to follow what is decided.
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Adjudicate Disputes
Adjudicate disputes typically arise when one party claims to be wronged in an adjudicated decision and seeks justice. The case is brought in front of a judge.
The judge will adjudicate if the other person broke any rules from the original agreement. If they did, the judge will also adjudicate how much money the first person should get as a settlement.
Some examples of claim disputes that can be handled or resolved through adjudication are as follows:
- The conflict between private entities, such as single persons, businesses, or corporations
- Conflicts between private individuals and public officials
- Disagreements between people in positions of power
To fully adjudicate a case, all interested parties must be given notice and an opportunity to present their evidence and arguments.
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FAQs
What Is the Purpose of the Adjudication Process?
The purpose of the adjudication process is to resolve a dispute or decide a case. Courts determine current parties' rights by analyzing the legal rights and wrongs of their actions when they took place.
Where Does the Word Adjudicate Come From?
The word adjudicate comes from the past participle of the Latin word adjūdicāre, to award something to someone, and jūdicāre to act as a judge from jūdex judge.
What Does It Mean When A Claim Is Adjudicated?
When a claim is adjudicated, it means that a court or other third-party body has judged the claim's merits. The adjudication results in a final judgment; this judgment may involve a monetary award, dismissal of the claim, or other legal action.
The Bottom Line
If you believe that your case is ripe for adjudication, don't hesitate to contact Schmidt & Clark, LLP.
During your free consultation, you will speak to an experienced attorney who can provide guidance and advice regarding your case. Our attorneys are experienced in adjudication, making them well-suited to help you with your situation.
References:
- https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/adjudication
- https://ors.od.nih.gov/ser/dpsac/services/adjudication-branch/Pages/adjudication-process.aspx#:~:text=The%20adjudication%20process%20is%20an,as%20the%20whole%20person%20concept.