Judicial immunity
Judicial immunity (legal definition): The rule that a judge cannot be sued for money damages over judicial acts. In Stump v. Sparkman, 435 U.S. 349, 356–57 (1978), the Court held that a judge is not deprived of immunity because the action "was in error, was done maliciously, or was in excess of his authority." Under Mireles v. Waco, 502 U.S. 9, 11–12 (1991), immunity is overcome only for nonjudicial actions or for actions taken "in the complete absence of all jurisdiction." Judges can still be appealed, disciplined or removed.
What judicial immunity means
Put simply, judicial immunity definition is part of the working vocabulary of a civil case. The short definition above covers the usual meaning. Still, a specific rule, statute or contract can give it a narrower meaning. For that reason, check how it is used in your own documents.
Where judicial immunity definition 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: Immunity claims discussion.
How to research the term
First, read the term where it actually appears. A rule, statute or court decision may define it for its own purposes. Next, check whether your court has a local rule that uses judicial immunity definition in a special way. Then look at recent decisions from courts in your jurisdiction. They show how judges apply the term today. Also, remember that state law can differ from federal law. For that reason, use our state procedures guide to find your state’s rules. Finally, confirm every source is current before you rely on it.
You can read the current federal court rules online for free.
Related legal terms
- Judgment creditor: a party who is owed money under a judgment.
- Judgment debtor: a party who owes money under a judgment.
- Judicial: relating to the courts, judges or the administration of justice. For example, judicial power is the power to decide cases, and a judicial act is one a judge performs in that role.
- Judicial foreclosure: foreclosure carried out through a lawsuit and a court judgment before the property is sold.
Why precise terms matter
Legal words often look like everyday words, but they can carry a precise meaning. Because of that, a small misreading can change how you understand a deadline, a duty or a right. Our glossary keeps each definition short and links it to the procedures where it matters.
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.