What does "dismissal without prejudice" allow a party to do?

The phrase "dismissal without prejudice" means that the party whose case has been dismissed is permitted to refile the same claim in the future. This type of dismissal does not limit the litigant's ability to bring the same cause of action again at a later date, allowing them to potentially correct any issues that led to the initial dismissal or to address new circumstances that arise.

This concept is fundamental in civil procedure as it provides a level of flexibility for parties who may need more time or resources to effectively argue their case. In contrast, a dismissal with prejudice would bar the party from bringing the same claim again. Therefore, understanding the implications of a dismissal without prejudice is essential for both plaintiffs and defendants in litigation, as it can significantly impact their legal strategies.