Definition

1. Noun:
   • An invalid or inconclusive trial: A "mistrial" is a legal proceeding that is terminated and declared void before a verdict is reached, due to a fundamental error or prejudicial circumstance that prevents a fair outcome. It does not decide the guilt or innocence of the defendant.

Usage

• A "mistrial" is declared by a judge. It is a procedural outcome, not a judgment on the case's merits.
• It results in the trial being nullified. The case may be retried with a new jury, unless barred by double jeopardy rules.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The judge declared a mistrial after it was discovered a juror had conducted independent research.
  • A mistrial was caused by the prosecutor's improper remarks to the jury.
  • The case ended in a mistrial, so the defendant will face a new trial.

Advanced Usage

• "to declare a mistrial": The formal act of a judge ending a trial as invalid.
  • The judge had no choice but to declare a mistrial.
• "to result in a mistrial": Describes an event leading to this outcome.
  • The procedural error resulted in a mistrial.

Variants and Related Words

• Trial (n): The formal examination of evidence in a court of law.
• Retrial (n): A new trial of a case, often ordered after a mistrial or an appeal.

Synonyms

• Invalid trial: A trial rendered void.
• Aborted trial: A trial that was terminated prematurely.

Antonyms

• Valid trial: A lawfully conducted trial that reaches a verdict.
• Concluded trial: A trial that has reached a final judgment.

Noun

1. a trial that is invalid or inconclusive