Art. 1673 Effect of dismissal with or without prejudice

When a case gets dismissed "with prejudice," it's over for good. This means the same case has been fully decided, just like if it went all the way through a trial. The person who filed the lawsuit cannot bring that same claim back to court again.

On the other hand, if a case gets dismissed "without prejudice," it's not the end of the road. The person can file the same lawsuit again later if they want to. This type of dismissal doesn't stop them from trying again, as long as they follow the normal rules and deadlines for filing a new case.

The main difference comes down to whether you get a second chance. With prejudice means no do-overs. Without prejudice means you can try again.