Section 3.14 Effect of Res Judicata

• Library: Sources of Proof (2014 Ed.)

D. (§3.14) Effect of Res Judicata and Collateral Estoppel

Both res judicata and collateral estoppel are conclusive as to matters within their scope. They are binding on the parties to the subsequent suit and cannot be rebutted. In this sense, the effect of these doctrines is the same as that of the judicial admission. All three conclusively establish the validity of certain facts or issues.

A full trial in the first action is not always necessary to invoke the doctrines of res judicata and collateral estoppel. Both doctrines can be applied when the previous judgment is by default, by consent judgment, or on a motion for summary judgment. See:

· Micklus v. Greer, 705 F.2d 314, 316–17 (8 ^th Cir. 1983)

· Lane v. Hartford Fire Ins. Co., 343 F. Supp. 79, 85 (E.D. Mo. 1972)

· McMahon v. May Dep’t Stores Co., 374 S.W.2d 82, 89 (Mo. 1963)

· FH Partners, LLC v. Complete Home Concepts, Inc., 378 S.W.3d 387, 404 (Mo. App. W.D. 2012)

· Johnson v. Mo. Dep’t of Health & Senior Servs., 174 S.W.3d 568, 585–86 (Mo. App. W.D. 2005)

· St. Louis Univ. v. Hesselberg Drug Co., 35 S.W.3d 451, 455 (Mo. App. E.D. 2000)

· Anderson v. Cent. Mo. State Univ., 789 S.W.2d 41, 43 (Mo. App. W.D. 1990)

· Geringer v. Union Elec. Co., 731 S.W.2d 859, 886 (Mo. App. E.D. 1987)

· N.W. Elec. Power Coop., Inc. v. Am. Motorists Ins. Co., 451 S.W.2d 356, 365 (Mo. App. W.D. 1969)

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