nonsuit

A judgment against a plaintiff for failure to present enough evidence for a jury to decide in the plaintiff’s favor, or for failure to pursue a lawsuit, such as by proceeding to trial.

A dismissal of a lawsuit because the plaintiff has failed to pursue it.

To render a judgment of nonsuit against (a plaintiff).

Nonsuited.

In law, to subject to a nonsuit; deprive of the benefit of a legal process, owing to failure to appear in court when called upon, or to prove a case.

A judgment or decision against a plaintiff when he fails to show a cause of action at the trial: now often called dismissal of complaint. See calling of the plaintiff, under calling.

A judgment ordered for neglect to prosecute; a non pros.

Nonsuited.

To determine, adjudge, or record (a plaintiff) as having dropped his suit, upon his withdrawal or failure to follow it up.

A neglect or failure by the plaintiff to follow up his suit; a stopping of the suit; a renunciation or withdrawal of the cause by the plaintiff, either because he is satisfied that he can not support it, or upon the judge’s expressing his opinion. A compulsory nonsuit is a nonsuit ordered by the court on the ground that the plaintiff on his own showing has not made out his case.