Simple English definitions for legal terms
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A repugnant verdict is a type of verdict that contradicts itself. This happens when a defendant is convicted and acquitted of different crimes that have identical elements. For example, if a defendant is found guilty of both murder and manslaughter, which have the same elements, it would be a repugnant verdict.
This type of verdict is illegal and cannot be used in court. It is also known as a contradictory verdict.
For example, in a case where a defendant is charged with both assault and battery, if the jury finds the defendant guilty of assault but not guilty of battery, it would be a repugnant verdict. This is because assault and battery have the same elements, and the verdict contradicts itself.