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A settlement is a contract that is one possible result when parties sue (or contemplate so doing) each other in civil courts, usually seeking money as reparations for the alleged wrongdoing of the defendants. The plaintiff(s) and defendant(s) identified in the lawsuit can agree to resolve the dispute between themselves without a trial. The resolution of the lawsuit sets forth the obligations of the parties, and is often made effective by an order of the court after a joint stipulation by the parties.
The majority of cases are decided by a settlement. Both sides often have a strong incentive to settle to avoid the costs (such as legal fees, finding expert witnesses, etc.), associated with a trial.
In controversial cases, a settlement agreement may require both sides to keep its contents and all other information relevant to the case confidential.
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