ad·ju·di·cate 
(ə-jdĭ-kāt′)
(ə-jdĭ-kāt′)v. ad·ju·di·cat·ed, ad·ju·di·cat·ing, ad·ju·di·cates
v.tr.
1. To make a decision (in a legal case or proceeding), as where a judge or arbitrator rules on some disputed issue or claim between the parties.
2. To study and settle (a dispute or conflict): The principal adjudicated the students' quarrel.
3. To act as a judge of (a contest or an aspect of a contest).
v.intr.
1. To make a decision in a legal case or proceeding: a judge adjudicating on land claims.
2. To study and settle a dispute or conflict.
3. To act as a judge of a contest.
[Latin adiūdicāre, adiūdicāt-, to award to (judicially) : ad-, ad- + iūdicāre, to judge (from iūdex, judge; see JUDGE).]
ad·ju′di·cation n.
ad·judi·ca′tive adj.
ad·judi·ca′tor n.