Decree
A formal expression of the adjudication of a civil court on a matter in issue � the court's formal decision in a civil suit.
Full Definition
A decree is the formal expression of a civil court's adjudication conclusively determining the rights of the parties with regard to a matter in controversy. It may be: (1) preliminary � when further proceedings are needed to make it complete; (2) final � completely disposes of the case; (3) partly preliminary and partly final. Decrees are distinguished from orders in that decrees conclusively determine the parties' rights.
In Indian Law
Section 2(2) CPC defines decree. A decree is the final determination of the suit by the court at the trial level. It is enforceable through execution proceedings under Order XXI CPC. A foreign decree can be executed in India under Section 44A CPC if the country is a reciprocating territory. The distinction between decrees and orders matters for appeal � only decrees and certain specified orders are appealable.