Res Judicata Principle Applies In Criminal Proceedings; Findings In One Case Bind Parties In Subsequent Case : Supreme Court

The Supreme Court reiterated that the principle of res judicata applies in criminal proceedings, meaning that findings of fact in one criminal case are binding on the parties in a subsequent case involving the same facts. This principle prevents the relitigation of issues that have already been decided by a competent court in a previous case, ensuring finality and consistency in judicial outcomes, even in criminal matters. It promotes efficiency and avoids conflicting decisions on the same set of facts.