Res iudicata

Res judicata is a fundamental principle of procedural law that precludes the re-litigation of a matter already finally adjudicated. This principle safeguards legal certainty and prevents interminable proceedings concerning the same facts and questions of law.

The authority of res judicata attaches once a decision becomes final and unappealable, for example upon expiry of the time limit for appeal or following a judgment that has itself become final. In practice, it binds both the parties and the court, which may not re-examine the case.

In Dutch civil proceedings this principle is applied strictly in order to deter abuse of process and to promote the efficiency of the administration of justice.