Glossary
Dismissal with prejudice
A dismissal that ends the case for good. The plaintiff can't refile the same claim. Often the result of settlement or of a court ruling on the merits.
When a case is dismissed with prejudice, it's over: the plaintiff is barred from bringing the same claim again. The dismissal acts as a final judgment for purposes of res judicata (claim preclusion).
Settlement agreements often include a dismissal with prejudice. So do final rulings against the plaintiff after summary judgment or trial. Dismissals for severe procedural failures (like flagrant disobedience of court orders) can also be with prejudice.
If you settle a case and sign a stipulation to dismiss with prejudice, that's the end of the road for that claim against that defendant. Make sure you understand what you're giving up before signing.