Also known as: reversed · reversing · reverse · reversal · rev.
Written by attorneys · grounded in primary & secondary sources — see below
A notation in legal citations indicating that an appellate court has overturned the judgment of a lower court.
Select any source to read its text and confirm it supports the definition.
Rachel Ramirez filed a complaint asserting a novel theory of liability that lacked support in existing precedent. The district court dismissed the case. On appeal the circuit court held that the argument was nonfrivolous and reversed the dismissal, allowing the claim to proceed.
Roberto Reyes was acquitted after the information was filed. The state later sought to prosecute him again on the same facts. The appellate court reversed the trial court's denial of the motion to dismiss, holding that the prior final judgment precluded further proceedings.
Roland Rhodes filed a motion containing claims with no basis in law or fact and no good-faith argument for reversal of precedent. The trial court denied sanctions. The reviewing court reversed the denial, finding the filing frivolous and ordering sanctions.
Raphael Rivera revoked his will by act and later performed a new act on the document that clearly demonstrated intent to revive it. The probate court initially refused probate. The appellate court reversed, finding the revival requirements satisfied.
Rowan Russell was convicted after the prosecution withheld material exculpatory evidence. The appellate court found the suppression violated due process and reversed the conviction, ordering a new trial.
Raymond Ramos received real property under a will that did not direct payment of an existing mortgage from estate assets. The probate court ordered exoneration. The appellate court reversed, holding that the devisee took the property subject to the lien.
It indicates that a higher court has overturned the decision below.
Yes. Once a decision is reversed the original judgment is set aside and loses precedential effect on the parties.
Reversal sets aside the judgment on the merits after appellate review. Vacation may occur for procedural reasons without reaching the merits.
…criminal abortion statutes of that State are unconstitutional. The judgment of the District Court as to intervenor Hallford is reversed, and Dr. Hallford's complaint in intervention is dismissed. In all other respects, the judgment of the District Court is affirmed. Costs are allowed to the appellee. It is so…