A “judgment in rem” is one which declares, defines or otherwise determines the jural relation of a person or thing to the world generally. A judgment “in rem” amounts to a decision on the status of a specific matter or an individual’s rights in respect of a certain matter, which is not only conclusive between the contesting parties but also as against the world. Whereas the expression “in personam”, is also a Latin phrase which means “against or affecting a specific person only; imposing a personal liability, rights and duties”. The lawsuit or legal proceedings against a particular person and order or judgment falling within this classification can be enforced against that particular person but not in rem. A judgment “in personam” can be described as a judgment that defines, the rights against contesting persons in relation to a particular subject, or to compel the performance of a particular act or breach of some contractual obligations.
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Civil