What is a consent decree?

A consent decree is a legal agreement between parties in a lawsuit, where the parties agree to resolve the matter without admitting any fault or guilt. This type of judgment allows parties to work collaboratively to reach a resolution that is often filed with a court and may require court approval. By entering into a consent decree, parties can settle disputes effectively while avoiding the costs and uncertainties of a trial.

The significance of a consent decree lies in its ability to provide a mechanism for compliance and future conduct, often incorporating terms that require changes in behavior or practices to prevent future violations of the law or regulations. Because it is entered voluntarily by the agreeing parties, it reflects a negotiated resolution rather than a unilateral judgment imposed by a court.

In contrast, the other options depict different legal mechanisms or outcomes that do not align with the characteristics of a consent decree. For instance, a settlement that requires a party to admit guilt implies an acknowledgment of wrongdoing, which is not typical in a consent decree. A judgment made by a jury refers specifically to verdicts resulting from a trial, while a decision made solely by a federal judge indicates a unilateral judicial determination rather than an agreement reached by the parties involved.