Final Decree Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term Final Decree.

Final Decree (n): The final and conclusive judgment or order issued by a court at the end of a legal proceeding. This term is used when all matters in a case have been resolved and no further action is needed by the court. For example, in a divorce case, after all issues like alimony, child custody etc. have been settled, a 'final decree' is issued officially ending the marriage. This is different from any temporary or intermediate orders that might have been issued by the court during the course of the case.