What is defined as a formal decision made by the court?

A formal decision made by the court is referred to as a judgment. In legal terms, a judgment is the final determination of a court regarding the rights and obligations of the parties involved in a case. It is the conclusion reached after a trial or hearing, where the judge or jury issues a decision based on the evidence and arguments presented during the proceedings. This decision can include findings on liability, the amount of damages, and the terms of any injunctions.

In contrast, litigation refers to the process of taking legal action or resolving disputes through the court system, while adjudication is the process by which a court or judge resolves a legal matter, which may lead to a judgment. An appeal is the process of seeking a higher court's review of a lower court's decision, but it does not itself represent a formal decision made by the court. Overall, the term judgment specifically encapsulates the end result of a judicial proceeding, making it the accurate choice in this context.