petty jury

noun

1. (in a civil or criminal proceeding) a jury, usually of 12 persons, impaneled to determine the facts and render a verdict pursuant to the court's instructions on the law.

petty jury

noun

1. See petit jury
   a variant spelling of petit jury

Derived Forms

• petty juror, noun

Other Words From

• petty juror noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of petty jury¹

First recorded in 1680–90

Example Sentences

Thus the modern system of inquiry by grand jury and trial by petty jury was gradually developed.

From Project Gutenberg

The grand jury were landowners, and the petty jury were farmers; both judge and jury were churchmen of the prevailing type.

From Project Gutenberg

A writ was issued for the return of a petty jury the following day.

From Project Gutenberg

Two grand juries, the petty jury, and the twenty-seven peers.

From Project Gutenberg

Nor is there any petty jury of his peers sworn to try the truth of the charges.

From Project Gutenberg