What is the definition of a settlement in malpractice claims?

A settlement in malpractice claims refers to an agreement made between the parties involved to resolve the claim before it reaches trial. This often involves the defendant—typically a healthcare provider—agreeing to compensate the plaintiff, often through a monetary payment, to avoid the uncertainties and costs associated with a trial. Settlements can provide a way for both parties to come to a conclusion that is mutually agreeable without the need for a court ruling, allowing for a potentially faster resolution and avoiding the public scrutiny of a trial.

The other choices do not accurately define a settlement in this context. A court judgment refers specifically to the decision made by a judge or jury after a trial, while a public apology, although possibly part of a settlement proposal, is not inherently a legal resolution of the claim. A formal denial of wrongdoing may also occur during the course of legal proceedings, particularly if the case goes to trial, but it does not represent an agreement to resolve the dispute.