Merger
Merger: Has several meanings. In corporate law, a merger combines two or more entities into one surviving entity under state statutes. In contract and property law, a merger (or integration) clause states that the written agreement is the parties' complete agreement, and the terms of a real estate purchase contract generally merge into the deed at closing. In procedure, a claim merges into the judgment entered on it. In trust law, when one person becomes the sole trustee and the sole beneficiary, the legal and beneficial interests merge and the trust generally ends. Uniform Trust Code § 402(a)(5) reflects this by requiring that the same person not be the sole trustee and sole beneficiary.
What merger means
In practice, you will see merger 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 merger 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.
How to research the term
Start with the primary source. For example, if merger appears in a federal rule, read the rule itself and its official notes. After that, check your court’s local rules and any standing orders from the judge. In addition, search recent decisions from your own state or federal district. They show how courts read merger in practice. Because state rules often differ, our state procedures guide links to each state’s official rules. Above all, make sure the version you read is still in force.
You can read the current federal court rules online for free.
Related legal terms
- Mediation: a process in which a neutral third party helps the parties try to reach a settlement.
- Meet and confer: a required good-faith attempt by the parties to resolve a dispute before asking the court to decide it.
- Memorandum: a written statement or note. In motion practice, a memorandum of points and authorities (or memorandum of law) sets out the facts, the law and the argument supporting or opposing a motion. Courts also issue memorandum opinions, and parties may sign a memorandum of understanding.
- Mens rea: latin for "guilty mind." The mental state the prosecution must prove for a crime, along with the criminal act.
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.