mistrial

[ mis-trahy-uhl, -trahyl ]

noun

, Law.

1. a trial terminated without conclusion on the merits of the case because of some error in the proceedings.
2. an inconclusive trial, as where the jury cannot agree.

mistrial

/ mɪsˈtraɪəl /

noun

1. a trial made void because of some error, such as a defect in procedure
2. (in the US) an inconclusive trial, as when a jury cannot agree on a verdict

Word History and Origins

Origin of mistrial¹

First recorded in 1620–30; mis- ¹ + trial

Example Sentences

The first ended in a mistrial in spring after a jury was unable to reach a decision.

From BBC

His previous federal case last year ended in a mistrial when the jury told the judge it could not reach a unanimous verdict.

From BBC

After a mistrial, the pair were convicted of murder with special circumstances in a second trial in 1996, making them ineligible for parole.

From Los Angeles Times

The case initially went to trial in January 2023 but ended in a mistrial.

From Los Angeles Times

However, both juries were deadlocked, resulting in a mistrial, and the pair were later tried again together.

From BBC