What characterizes a case dismissed with prejudice?

A case dismissed with prejudice is characterized by its finality, which means that it cannot be brought again in the future. This indicates that the court has made a definitive ruling on the merits of the case, and it effectively closes the matter for the parties involved. Dismissal with prejudice serves as a barrier to future litigation on the same claim or cause of action, preventing the plaintiff from refiling the case later.

In contrast, other options describe scenarios that do not align with the nature of a dismissal with prejudice. Refiling at a later date, indicating a temporary dismissal, or suggesting that the case has been settled out of court all imply that there is still potential for continuation or revival of the case, which is not the case with a dismissal with prejudice. This status is meant to provide finality and closure, thereby protecting the defendants from being subjected to the same claims again.