mootness doctrine

The mootness doctrine is a legal principle stating that courts will not decide cases that no longer have a live dispute or controversy. If the issue has resolved itself or is no longer relevant—such as if the parties settle or the law changes—there is no need for the court to intervene. This ensures that the judicial system focuses on current, actionable issues rather than hypothetical or outdated problems. Essentially, if a case becomes moot, it is dismissed because a decision would have no practical effect on the parties involved.