What does "issue" refer to in a legal dispute?

In the context of a legal dispute, "issue" specifically refers to a point of dispute between the parties. This term indicates the key matters that are in contention, which lawyers will argue in court. Essentially, the issue represents the core disagreement that needs resolution, making it essential for the adjudication process.

When parties enter litigation, they each present their own interpretations and arguments regarding these disputes, and the court's role is to determine which side has the stronger case based on the evidence and legal standards. Understanding that an "issue" is essentially a point of contention clarifies its significance within any legal proceedings.

The other concepts listed, while related to the legal process, do not accurately capture the definition of "issue" in this context. A point of agreement, for instance, would not present a dispute but rather a consensus. Similarly, a final verdict is a conclusion reached after all issues have been resolved by the court. A question of law is broader, referring to legal principles that may guide the resolution of issues but does not specifically denote a contested point between the parties involved.