What is meant by "adjudication"?

"Adjudication" refers to the judicial process in which a court or judge makes a formal decision regarding a legal matter. This involves the resolution of a dispute through legal procedures, which could encompass various aspects—from hearings to trials. When one says "the rendering of a decision," it correctly captures the essence of adjudication, as this process culminates in a definitive outcome or judgment by a legal authority.

The other options, while related to the legal process and disputes, do not specifically define adjudication. The process of settling a dispute before trial typically involves negotiations or mediation rather than formal adjudication. A jury's final verdict pertains specifically to a jury's decision at the conclusion of a trial, whereas an attorney's closing argument is a component of the trial process itself, presenting the case to the jury but not the decision itself. The core of adjudication lies in the act of making that final decision, which is why "the rendering of a decision" is the correct definition.