Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Term: Mistrial
Definition: A mistrial happens when a jury can't agree on a verdict, or when something goes wrong during a trial that makes it unfair. When this happens, the judge stops the trial and there has to be a new trial with a new jury or judge.
Category: Courts and Procedure
Mistrial
A mistrial happens when a trial is stopped before a verdict is reached. This can happen for two reasons:
For example, if a juror talks to someone about the case outside of the courtroom, that could be considered unfair behavior. If the judge finds out, they might declare a mistrial and order a new trial with a new jury.
In a criminal trial, the jury can't agree on whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty. They deliberate for several days, but still can't come to a decision. The judge declares a mistrial and orders a new trial with a new jury.
In another trial, a witness gives testimony that is later found to be false. The defense lawyer argues that this testimony unfairly influenced the jury's decision. The judge agrees and declares a mistrial, ordering a new trial with a new jury.
These examples show how a mistrial can happen when there are problems with the trial that make it impossible to reach a fair verdict.