Collateral Estoppel Definition

Collateral estoppel prevents the government or defendant from relitigating an issue that the court has already decided. Collateral estoppel prevents either party from re-raising legal or factual issues that have already been ruled upon by a judge.

For example, suppose a judge denies a prosecutor’s motion requesting relief, such as the admission of evidence. In that case, the issue cannot be brought up again before the same judge unless the facts, law, or circumstances have changed.

Motion to Suppress and Dismiss Lawyers
Motion to Withdraw Plea Defense Attorneys
Denied Motion to Suppress Based on Improper Search

External Resource

Perseverance and the Doctrine of Collateral Estoppel
Michigan Legislature – Section 445.780
Collateral Estoppel: Loosening the Mutuality Rule in Tax Litigation

Appeal
Motion
Judge
Evidence

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