What does it mean when a case is 'dismissed with prejudice'?

When a case is 'dismissed with prejudice,' it signifies that the decision is final and bars any future action on the same matter. This means that the court has made a determination on the issues presented, and the party whose case has been dismissed cannot refile or bring the matter back to court for reconsideration.

This concept serves an essential purpose in the legal system by preventing endless litigation over the same issue, ensuring that legal disputes are resolved conclusively. By dismissing a case with prejudice, the court is indicating that the issues have been adjudicated and that justice has been served. In practical terms, if a case is dismissed with prejudice, it signifies a resolution that cannot be challenged or continued without resolving the underlying issues first.