What does default generally refer to in legal terminology?

In legal terminology, default refers to the failure to fulfill a legal obligation, which typically involves not meeting the terms set by a contract or failing to respond to a legal action in a timely manner. When a party defaults, it can initiate various legal proceedings, particularly in civil cases where the aggrieved party may seek a default judgment against the non-responsive party. This concept is essential as it can significantly affect the rights of the parties involved and the outcome of legal proceedings.

The other options represent unrelated legal concepts: a judgment rendered without a trial pertains to situations where one party does not contest the case, while requests for extensions and the appeals process involve procedural aspects that do not directly relate to the act of defaulting on an obligation. Understanding the distinction of default within these contexts is crucial for legal professionals and those involved in the judicial process.