If a newly purchased vehicle in Danville repeatedly fails to perform as promised, you may have rights under California lemon law. At Law Republic APC we help local residents of Danville and Contra Costa County understand their options and pursue remedies when manufacturers or dealers cannot repair a serious defect after multiple attempts. This overview explains how lemon law claims typically proceed, what evidence is most important, and how local courts and arbitration forums handle these disputes. Call 818-532-5323 to discuss your situation and next steps in Danville.
Many vehicle owners in Danville are unsure when repeated repairs cross the line into a legal claim. Under California law, a vehicle that has a substantial defect that impairs its use, safety, or value and that the manufacturer cannot fix within a reasonable number of attempts may qualify as a lemon. This paragraph outlines common signs that a new vehicle in Danville might be defective, including persistent dashboard warnings, repeated transmission or brake failures, and unresolved safety problems. We describe practical steps to protect your claim and document repair history for potential legal action.
Bringing a lemon law claim can lead to a full refund, vehicle replacement, or substantial settlement that covers repair costs, diminished value, and related expenses. For Danville residents, asserting those rights can restore financial stability and prevent ongoing safety risks. A successful claim also holds manufacturers accountable for failing to address persistent defects and helps preserve resale value. This paragraph explains how legal action can remove a continuously unreliable vehicle from your life, compensate you for wasted time and money, and reduce the stress associated with unpredictable repairs and unsafe driving conditions.
Law Republic APC serves clients across California, including Danville and Contra Costa County, handling personal injury, real estate, and lemon law matters. Our team focuses on building strong factual records, communicating effectively with manufacturers, and advocating for fair resolutions through negotiation, arbitration, or court proceedings when needed. We emphasize responsiveness and clear guidance so Danville vehicle owners understand deadlines, required documentation, and likely outcomes. Contacting our office at 818-532-5323 starts a detailed review of your vehicle history and lets us outline a strategy tailored to your circumstances in Danville.
California’s lemon law provides protections for vehicle buyers when a new car or light truck has a defect that substantially impairs its use, safety, or market value and the manufacturer cannot repair it after a reasonable number of attempts. For Danville consumers, this means documenting repair visits, service orders, and communications with dealers or manufacturers, and tracking problems that persist despite repeated repairs. This paragraph explains typical timelines, the role of manufacturer service centers, and how warranty obligations interact with statutory protections under state law for residents in and around Danville.
A lemon law claim often requires showing that the defect occurred within the warranty period and that enough repair attempts were made to establish a reasonable opportunity to cure. For Danville vehicle owners that may include repeated trips for the same problem or a severity of defect that presents an immediate safety concern. This paragraph outlines the kinds of records most valuable in building a claim, including invoices, repair orders, owner’s manual notes, and written correspondence with dealers or manufacturers in Contra Costa County and elsewhere in California.
A defective new vehicle under California law is one that has a nonconformity covered by the manufacturer’s warranty that substantially impairs the vehicle’s use, safety, or value. Examples include persistent engine stalling, recurring transmission failure, unresolved brake malfunctions, or electronic system faults that cannot be remedied after a reasonable number of repair attempts. This explanation highlights the distinction between minor issues and defects that justify legal action, and why consistent documentation of repair attempts and symptom recurrence is vital for a successful claim in Danville and throughout Contra Costa County.
A successful lemon law claim typically depends on proving the defect is covered by warranty, occurred within the warranty period, and persisted despite a reasonable number of repair attempts. Key steps include collecting repair records, sending any required notification letters to the manufacturer, participating in available arbitration programs, and preparing evidence for settlement talks or litigation if necessary. For Danville residents, local timelines and documentation practices are emphasized, along with practical guidance on preserving vehicle inspection reports and communicating effectively with dealership service departments.
Understanding common terms helps Danville consumers navigate their lemon law claim with more confidence. Important concepts include warranty coverage, nonconformity, reasonable repair attempts, arbitration, replacement vehicle remedies, and statutory deadlines. This description provides concise definitions and explains how these terms apply in the typical sequence of a California lemon law matter, from the initial discovery of a defect to potential resolution through settlement, arbitration, or court judgment. Clear definitions help vehicle owners make informed choices about pursuing a claim.
Warranty coverage refers to the manufacturer’s express promises regarding repair and maintenance for a defined period or mileage. For Danville vehicle owners, warranty documents establish what defects the manufacturer must address and the timeframe for those obligations. Understanding warranty terms clarifies whether a problem falls under manufacturer responsibility, and whether parts, labor, and towing or rental costs are covered during repair attempts. Keeping copies of warranty booklets, service bulletins, and dealer repair orders helps demonstrate the scope of coverage in any lemon law claim.
Reasonable repair attempts generally mean the manufacturer or dealer had sufficient opportunities to fix the same defect but failed to do so. For Danville residents, this can include several visits for the same issue or a limited number of attempts when the defect presents a significant safety concern. Determining what is reasonable depends on the nature of the defect, prior decisions interpreting the law, and the total number of repairs documented. Clear repair records strengthen the argument that the manufacturer did not correct the nonconformity within a reasonable time.
A nonconformity is a defect or condition that deviates from the promises in the manufacturer’s warranty and substantially impairs the vehicle’s intended use, safety, or value. Examples in Danville claims include brake failures, repeated engine stalls, or unresolved electrical failures that make the vehicle unreliable or hazardous. Demonstrating a nonconformity requires linking the symptom to covered warranty issues and showing that repeated repair attempts did not remedy the condition. Accurate drafting of repair orders and independent inspection reports can support the claim of nonconformity.
Remedies under California lemon law may include replacement of the defective vehicle, a refund of the purchase price less a reasonable usage fee, or a settlement that compensates for diminished value and repair expenses. Danville vehicle owners may also be entitled to reimbursement for incidental costs such as towing and rental car expenses. The available relief depends on the severity of the defect, warranty terms, and the results of negotiations, arbitration, or litigation. Documenting all related expenses and communications is key to maximizing recovery.
When facing a defective new vehicle, vehicle owners in Danville can pursue limited approaches such as direct negotiation with the dealership or manufacturer, or seek a full claim under California lemon law that may lead to replacement or refund. Limited approaches may be faster for simple repairs but can leave unresolved problems and limited recovery for time and value lost. A comprehensive claim typically involves collecting evidence, following statutory procedures, and being prepared to use arbitration or court processes. This paragraph compares different paths, their potential outcomes, and practical considerations specific to Danville.
A limited approach can be appropriate when the defect is minor, resolved promptly by the dealer, and does not affect safety or market value. For Danville residents, this might include cosmetic issues or simple part replacements that are corrected on the first few visits. In these situations, pursuing a full lemon law claim may not be necessary because the warranty repair restored normal operation quickly. However, documenting the repair and confirming the issue remains resolved is important to prevent recurrence and preserve options if the problem reappears.
A limited strategy may also be reasonable when the dealer provides a clear written commitment to fix the issue and follows through consistently within warranty terms. For consumers in Danville, obtaining written service confirmations, timelines, and guarantees that address the defect can reduce the need for formal legal claims. This approach relies on maintaining thorough records and verifying that repairs fully correct the problem. If repairs fail or symptoms recur, the documented attempts become evidence supporting a more comprehensive claim under California law.
Comprehensive legal action is often required when a vehicle returns to the shop multiple times for the same defect and the issue persists, indicating the manufacturer has not remedied the nonconformity. For Danville drivers, repeated repair visits that fail to correct safety or reliability problems typically justify pursuing lemon law remedies to obtain a replacement or refund. A full claim gathers repair records, service orders, and correspondence to demonstrate that the manufacturer had a reasonable opportunity to fix the defect but did not do so effectively.
When defects impair vehicle safety or lead to substantial loss of market value, a comprehensive claim can secure stronger remedies and protect owners from ongoing risk. For Danville residents, issues like brake failure, sudden engine stalls, or unresolved airbag warnings justify escalating the response beyond informal negotiations. A thorough legal approach also accounts for incidental costs such as rental cars and towing, pursues possible statutory damages, and ensures the manufacturer is held responsible for failing to correct the defect within warranted terms.
A comprehensive approach seeks the full range of remedies available under California law, including replacement vehicles, refunds, and reimbursement for related costs. Danville residents benefit from professional handling of deadlines, procedural requirements, and communication with manufacturers to prevent overlooking important statutory steps. Pursuing a complete claim also increases the likelihood of fair compensation for diminished value and inconvenience caused by repeated repairs, providing long-term financial relief and removing unsafe vehicles from active use in Contra Costa County.
Comprehensive representation also helps ensure that evidence is organized and presented effectively during arbitration or litigation. For vehicle owners in Danville, this means repair records, diagnostic reports, and correspondence are compiled to demonstrate a pattern of unresolved defects. A full strategy can lead to negotiated settlements that reflect the total impact of the defect on the owner’s life, including lost time, repair expenses, and loss of vehicle reliability. Clear documentation and legal advocacy improve the chance of a prompt and appropriate resolution.
Using a full legal approach increases the likelihood of obtaining remedies that address both financial loss and practical inconvenience. For Danville vehicle owners, this can mean securing a full refund, a replacement vehicle, or compensation that covers out-of-pocket expenses and diminished value. Organized documentation and formal claims pressure manufacturers to resolve persistent nonconformities responsibly. This benefit reduces the long-term risk of owning an unreliable vehicle and helps recoup costs incurred while attempting to obtain a permanent repair.
A comprehensive claim places a priority on removing unsafe or unreliably repaired vehicles from use, reducing the chance of future breakdowns or accidents. Danville residents with recurring mechanical or electronic defects can obtain remedies that remove the defective vehicle from their daily life, preventing further exposure to safety failures. This approach also motivates manufacturers to address systemic problems and helps protect other consumers by encouraging future improvements in repair practices and quality control across the region.
Documenting every repair visit and interaction with the dealership or manufacturer is essential. For Danville vehicle owners, keep copies of repair orders, invoices, service bulletins, and any written correspondence, including emails and text messages. Note dates, mileage, who you spoke with, and the symptoms described during each visit. Consistent records form the backbone of a lemon law claim and make it easier to demonstrate the ongoing nature of the defect. Accurate documentation also helps with arbitration or mediation if settlement negotiations become necessary.
Avoid altering or making non-factory repairs to the vehicle while a defect is being documented, as changes may complicate proof of the original problem. For Danville owners, consider obtaining an independent inspection if the dealer’s repairs do not resolve the issue; a neutral report can corroborate the defect and its impact on safety or value. Keeping the vehicle available for inspection and maintaining original parts when practical strengthens the credibility of your claim and supports recovery through arbitration or court proceedings.
Vehicle owners should consider representation when defects persist despite repair attempts, when repairs affect safety, or when the vehicle’s resale value is compromised. For Danville residents, legal assistance helps ensure deadlines are met and evidence is compiled properly, increasing the likelihood of obtaining full remedies such as refund or replacement. Representation also manages communications with manufacturers, which can be complex and time-consuming. This paragraph explains why engaging counsel can be a pragmatic step to resolve ongoing vehicle problems and secure appropriate compensation.
Another reason to consider legal help is to ensure incidental costs such as towing, rental cars, and repeated inspection fees are documented and pursued for reimbursement. For busy Danville consumers, navigating arbitration procedures and understanding statutory rights in California can be daunting without support. Legal representation helps present a complete picture of damages and strengthens bargaining positions during settlement talks, potentially achieving faster and more favorable outcomes than informal negotiations with the manufacturer or dealer alone.
Typical circumstances include vehicles that undergo repeated repairs for the same defect, persistent safety issues like brake or steering failures, unresolved engine or transmission malfunctions, or electronic system failures that compromise vehicle reliability. Danville drivers also seek relief when multiple attempts at repair leave the vehicle unreliable for daily use or when manufacturers fail to honor warranty commitments. This paragraph outlines the kinds of situations most likely to lead to successful lemon law claims under California law and what documentation those claims usually require.
When the same mechanical failure recurs after several repair visits, it often indicates a persistent nonconformity covered by warranty. Danville owners experiencing repeated transmission, engine, or suspension failures should document each repair visit and symptom. Multiple unsuccessful attempts to remedy the problem typically justify escalation to a formal claim and can lead to remedies such as refund or replacement under state law. Keeping chronological records of these failures is essential to demonstrate the pattern and its impact on vehicle use and safety.
Safety-related defects, such as brakes that fail under normal conditions or airbag warnings that do not reset, warrant quicker escalation because of potential hazards on the road. Danville drivers facing unresolved safety problems should prioritize documenting repair attempts and avoid further use of the vehicle if it poses imminent danger. Legal action may be necessary to obtain a replacement vehicle or refund, and documented repair history plus independent inspection reports strengthen the case. Prioritizing safety helps protect occupants and other road users.
Modern vehicles rely heavily on electronic systems that may suffer recurring faults not easily resolved by routine repairs. Problems such as repeated instrument cluster failures, persistent warning lights, or malfunctioning driver assistance systems can significantly impair vehicle function. Danville owners experiencing these issues should preserve diagnostic reports, software update records, and any service bulletins. When manufacturer attempts to update or repair software do not resolve the problem, a lemon law claim can pursue remediation, replacement, or refund depending on the severity and impact of the defect.
If you suspect your new vehicle is defective, Law Republic APC offers a clear, straightforward intake to review repair histories and determine if a lemon law claim is appropriate. For Danville residents, we gather service records, advise on communications with manufacturers, and outline potential remedies under California law. Our office explains timelines, arbitration options, and probable outcomes so you can make informed decisions. Reach out at 818-532-5323 to schedule a review and learn how to preserve evidence and pursue a prompt resolution for persistent vehicle defects.
Clients in Danville work with Law Republic APC because we focus on building a complete factual record and advocating for fair resolutions tailored to each case. We assist with gathering repair orders, correspondence, and diagnostic information to present a persuasive claim on your behalf. Our approach includes clear communication about likely outcomes and required steps under California law, so local vehicle owners understand what to expect throughout the process and how to protect their rights effectively.
We prioritize practical results that remove an unreliable vehicle from daily use or recover fair compensation for losses. For Danville residents, this means pursuing refunds, replacements, or settlements that account for out-of-pocket expenses and diminished value when appropriate. Our office manages procedural requirements, prepares documents for arbitration or court, and negotiates with manufacturers on your behalf to secure timely and satisfactory resolutions to persistent vehicle defects.
Choosing representation helps ensure deadlines and statutory requirements are met while preserving evidence and maximizing potential recovery. For Danville consumers, we explain the tradeoffs between informal negotiation and a full legal claim, provide realistic timelines, and offer guidance on whether arbitration or litigation is the best path for your situation. Contact Law Republic APC at 818-532-5323 to begin a focused review of your vehicle’s repair history and options under California law.
Our process begins with a thorough review of repair records, service invoices, and warranty documents to determine if your vehicle qualifies for lemon law remedies. For Danville clients we explain available relief and outline the steps for negotiation, arbitration, or litigation when necessary. We assist with sending required notices to manufacturers, compiling evidence, and presenting claims in arbitration forums commonly used in California. Throughout the process, we keep clients informed about timing, potential outcomes, and options to settle or proceed to a hearing.
The first step focuses on assembling a complete file of repair orders, invoices, warranty records, and correspondence with dealers and manufacturers. For Danville owners this includes collecting dates, mileage, and symptom descriptions to establish a clear chronology of the defect. We review whether the defect occurred within the warranty period and whether repair attempts meet the statutory threshold for a claim. Proper early documentation sets the stage for either productive negotiations or formal arbitration if required.
Collecting repair orders and service history provides the factual foundation for a claim. Danville vehicle owners should request complete service records from dealerships and independent shops, including diagnostic reports and replaced part lists. These documents show the nature and frequency of repairs, which helps demonstrate whether the manufacturer had reasonable opportunities to fix the defect. We guide clients on obtaining missing records and organizing them in a way that supports arbitration or settlement discussions.
Documenting every contact with the dealer or manufacturer is essential to show attempts at resolution. For Danville residents this includes emails, letters, call logs, and written repair estimates. Proper documentation of requests for repair, written promises, or acknowledged warranty coverage strengthens a claim and may be required by arbitration programs. We assist clients in drafting effective written notifications to the manufacturer and preserving evidence that demonstrates the manufacturer’s awareness of the ongoing problem.
After the initial review and documentation, we prepare a demand and attempt negotiation with the manufacturer or its representatives. If negotiations do not yield a fair outcome, we prepare for arbitration or litigation by compiling a clear evidentiary record, arranging expert inspections if needed, and drafting claims that outline the requested remedies. For Danville clients this step focuses on pursuing refunds, replacements, or compensation for related costs, and making use of available arbitration forums provided by manufacturers or state programs.
We draft a formal demand letter that outlines the defect, repair history, and requested remedy, then present it to the manufacturer to open settlement discussions. For Danville owners the demand letter signals seriousness and often leads to productive negotiations. The letter includes supporting documentation and a clear explanation of the legal basis for the claim under California law. If the manufacturer is responsive, many disputes resolve without further proceedings, but preparation for arbitration ensures readiness if negotiations stall.
If negotiations fail, arbitration can be the next step and often provides a streamlined forum for resolving lemon law disputes. For Danville clients we compile exhibits, witness statements, and repair histories to present a concise, persuasive case. Arbitration rules vary by manufacturer and program, so preparing a compliant and well-documented submission is vital. We coordinate independent inspections or technical reports when needed and ensure all procedural requirements are met to maximize the chance of a favorable outcome.
The final stage resolves the dispute through settlement, arbitration award, or court judgment. For clients in Danville, this may result in a replacement vehicle, refund with a usage offset, or monetary compensation for repair costs and incidental expenses. We evaluate settlement offers to ensure they fully address losses and long-term impacts, and we proceed to trial if necessary to protect clients’ rights. The goal is prompt, fair resolution that removes an unreliable vehicle or compensates the owner appropriately under California law.
When a settlement offer is made, we assess its adequacy relative to documented losses, diminished value, and out-of-pocket expenses. For Danville clients this means reviewing refund calculations, replacement vehicle terms, and any release language that could limit future claims. We negotiate to improve offers and include provisions that ensure timely manufacturer performance. Our focus is on clear, enforceable agreements that fully resolve the dispute and protect the client from further vehicle-related issues.
If arbitration or court proceedings are required, we present the documented defects and repair history to seek an award or judgment in the client’s favor. For Danville vehicle owners this process may involve testimony, expert analysis, and legal argument to demonstrate that the vehicle was a lemon under California law. We pursue remedies that address financial and practical impacts of the defect, and we take steps to enforce awards or judgments to secure refunds, replacements, or reimbursement for incurred expenses.
A new vehicle may be considered a lemon when it has a warranty-covered defect that substantially impairs its use, safety, or value and the manufacturer has been given a reasonable number of attempts to fix the defect without success. For Danville residents, important factors include the timing of the defect within the warranty period and the nature of repair attempts. Keep detailed repair orders and communications to show the pattern of failures and the manufacturer’s inability to correct the problem. These records form the core of a strong lemon law claim. Establishing that a vehicle is a lemon also depends on the specific facts, such as the defect’s severity and the number of unsuccessful repairs. Certain serious defects that affect safety may justify fewer repair attempts before a claim is appropriate. Consulting with counsel or a legal advisor early helps Danville consumers determine when sufficient repair attempts have occurred and whether other remedies like arbitration or settlement should be pursued to resolve the matter effectively.
There is no fixed universal number of repair attempts that guarantees a successful lemon law claim; however, a common benchmark is multiple attempts for the same issue or a single attempt for a defect that creates a serious safety risk. For Danville vehicle owners, the nature of the defect and the frequency of service visits are evaluated together. Adequate documentation showing repeated attempts to repair the same problem strengthens the case and demonstrates the manufacturer had reasonable opportunities to remedy the defect. When repair attempts are frequent and unsuccessful, escalation to arbitration or formal legal action becomes more likely. Keeping meticulous records of each service visit, including dates, mileage, and technician notes, helps show a pattern of unresolved issues. Consulting a legal professional familiar with California lemon law can assist in determining whether your repair history meets the threshold for a claim and what next steps will be most effective for achieving a resolution.
Under California lemon law, remedies can include a replacement vehicle, a refund of the purchase price minus a reasonable usage offset, and reimbursement for repair costs and related expenses. Danville owners may also recover incidental damages such as towing or rental car costs if they can document these expenses. The specific remedy depends on the severity of the defect, warranty coverage, and the outcome of negotiations, arbitration, or litigation. Proper evidence and a clear claim help ensure all applicable remedies are considered. Some cases settle through negotiation before arbitration or court, producing a tailored resolution that addresses both financial and practical concerns. When arbitration or litigation is necessary, the decision may award remedies consistent with statutory protections. Documenting repair history and related expenses thoroughly increases the chance of securing a remedy that fully addresses the losses and inconvenience caused by the defective vehicle.
You do not always need to keep the vehicle in use while pursuing a claim, but preserving the vehicle in its current condition is important to maintain evidence of the defect. For Danville owners, avoid non-factory repairs or modifications that could complicate proof of the original issue. If independent inspections are needed, keeping the vehicle available for evaluation by qualified technicians can provide additional support for the claim and corroborate repair records. In some situations a manufacturer may request inspection of the vehicle as part of the resolution process, so cooperation while protecting your rights is key. If the vehicle’s condition poses a safety risk, limiting use until repairs are completed or a resolution is reached is advisable. Documenting every step helps maintain credibility and supports recovery through arbitration, settlement, or judgment under California law.
Pursuing a lemon law claim generally does not harm your credit if you continue to make required payments on financed vehicles, but the practical effects depend on how the case resolves. If a refund or replacement is obtained, financial arrangements with lenders can be adjusted as part of the resolution. For Danville residents it is important to communicate with your lender about the claim and any settlement terms to avoid misunderstandings that could affect credit standing during the dispute. Private records of a lemon law claim are typically not public in a way that would affect routine credit reporting. However, missing payments or repossession unrelated to the claim can negatively impact credit. Keeping payments current while pursuing a claim and coordinating with lenders as needed helps protect your financial position until the dispute is resolved.
California has warranty and statute of limitations timelines that can affect lemon law claims, so prompt action is important. For Danville vehicle owners, preserving repair records and notifying the manufacturer within the warranty period increases the likelihood of recovery. The exact time limits vary based on warranty terms and the nature of the defect, and counsel can help confirm applicable deadlines in your case to avoid losing legal rights due to delay. If significant time has passed since the defect first appeared, it remains important to compile all available records and seek advice promptly to assess whether a claim is still viable. Early review of the facts helps determine whether arbitration or litigation windows are open and supports more effective pursuit of remedies when warranted.
Yes, reimbursement for rental car, towing, and other incidental costs may be recoverable when they are directly related to attempts to repair a defective vehicle. Danville owners should keep receipts and records of these expenses to support claims for reimbursement. Including these costs in a demand or arbitration submission provides a more complete picture of the out-of-pocket impact caused by the defective vehicle and strengthens the case for full compensation. Documenting each expense and tying it to documented repair visits or manufacturer requests for the vehicle’s return helps ensure these costs are considered in settlement or award calculations. Consistent, dated records demonstrating how the defect forced you to incur additional costs will aid in seeking reimbursement under California law.
The most important documentation includes repair orders, invoices, warranty booklets, written communications with the dealer or manufacturer, diagnostic reports, and any independent inspection findings. For Danville vehicle owners, collecting these materials and organizing them chronologically helps demonstrate the repeated nature of the defect and the manufacturer’s knowledge and response. Clear, complete records are essential to prove the pattern of nonconformity and quantify damages such as repair costs and lost time. Additionally, keep notes about phone calls, names of service personnel, dates of visits, and mileage at each repair. Photographs, videos of symptoms, and copies of safety recall or service bulletins are also helpful. The stronger and more organized the documentation, the more persuasive the claim will be in negotiation, arbitration, or court settings.
Many manufacturers provide arbitration programs for resolving lemon law disputes as an alternative to court. Arbitration can be faster and less formal than litigation, and manufacturers often participate in programs administered by neutral organizations. For Danville clients, arbitration may require submission of repair records, a written statement, and possibly a hearing. Understanding the rules and timelines of the relevant arbitration program is key to presenting a persuasive case and obtaining appropriate remedies. Arbitration outcomes vary and may be binding depending on the program and agreement terms, so preparing an organized case with supporting documentation is essential. If arbitration is unsuccessful or unavailable, court action remains an option, and having a thorough record and professional guidance helps navigate either path effectively under California law.
Resolution timeframes vary widely depending on whether the matter settles early, proceeds to arbitration, or requires litigation. Some Danville cases resolve within weeks or months through direct negotiation, while others take longer when arbitration hearings or court schedules are involved. Preparation and early documentation improve the chances of a quicker resolution, and participating promptly in requested inspections or information exchanges helps move the process forward efficiently. Arbitration often offers a middle ground with faster decisions than traditional litigation, but timing depends on program scheduling and complexity of the technical issues. Engaging counsel early ensures deadlines are met and evidence is organized, helping expedite resolution whether by settlement, arbitration award, or court judgment.
