Discharge
Discharge: The ending of a legal obligation. A debt is discharged by payment, by agreement, by a court order such as a bankruptcy discharge, or as provided by statute. Under UCC § 3-601, an obligation to pay a negotiable instrument is discharged as Article 3 states or by an act or agreement that would discharge a simple contract to pay money.
What discharge means
In practice, you will see discharge in pleadings, motions, orders and court rules. The definition above explains the general meaning. Even so, the meaning can shift with context. Therefore, always read it alongside the rule or document where it appears.
Where discharge comes up
The term is used across many kinds of cases. For example, you may see it in pleadings, motions and court orders. To see it in context, browse the motions and procedures library or the Learn the Law topics.
Read the source: Tender.
How to research the term
To research discharge, begin with the rule, statute or contract where the word is used. Each one can give it a slightly different meaning. Then compare that text with how courts in your area have applied it. Also check the local rules of your court, since they can add requirements. If your case is in state court, the state rules control. So start with our state procedures guide to find them. In the end, always confirm that the source you rely on is current.
You can read the current federal court rules online for free.
Related legal terms
- Depository Trust Company: the central securities depository for the United States, founded in 1973 and now a subsidiary of the Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (DTCC), formed in 1999. DTC holds securities for banks and brokers and settles transfers electronically; its nominee is Cede & Co.
- Direct examination: the first questioning of a witness by the party who called the witness. Leading questions are generally not used on direct examination (Federal Rule of Evidence 611(c)).
- Directed verdict: an older term for what federal courts now call judgment as a matter of law.
- Disbursement: a payment of money out of an account or fund, such as the release of loan funds, a distribution from a trust or estate, or a payment from a court's registry. Money deposited in a federal court's registry may be withdrawn only by order of the court (28 U.S.C. § 2042).
Why precise terms matter
Courts read legal terms closely. As a result, knowing the exact meaning of a word helps you follow orders, rules and filings. Each glossary entry on Lawtopolis is short on purpose and links to the pages where the term is used.
Sources
Sources last reviewed: 2026-10-24
Lawtopolis provides legal information and education, not legal advice. Using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws and court rules vary by jurisdiction and change over time; verify every authority against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction about your situation.