What is the effect of collateral estoppel?

Collateral estoppel, also known as issue preclusion, is a legal doctrine that prevents parties from re-litigating an issue that has already been decided in a previous case involving the same parties. This doctrine serves to promote judicial efficiency and consistency by ensuring that once an issue has been litigated and determined, it cannot be contested again in a future lawsuit.

This principle is particularly important because it provides certainty and finality in legal proceedings. By barring the re-litigation of issues, collateral estoppel helps to conserve judicial resources and upholds the integrity of the court system, allowing it to focus on new matters rather than revisiting settled disputes.

In contrast, the other choices present scenarios that do not align with the purpose of collateral estoppel. Allowing for new evidence presentation contradicts the essence of the doctrine, as it would open the door for revisiting previously settled matters. Similarly, permitting repeated trials for the same issue is antithetical to the purpose of collateral estoppel. Lastly, stating that it applies solely to civil cases is inaccurate, as collateral estoppel can also apply in criminal cases, thereby expanding its relevance beyond just civil litigation.