Mistrial
/ˈmɪstraɪəl/
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Legal Term
Used in legal contexts, referring to a court case that is not completed or concluded properly. 
The evidence tampering led to a mistrial, so the case will be retried.
Pro Tip 2/3Cause of Mistrial
Mistrials can occur due to a hung jury, misconduct, or procedural error. 
After the juror discussed the case with an outsider, the judge had no choice but to declare a mistrial.
Pro Tip 3/3Not a Verdict
A mistrial is not the final decision in a case, but a situation where that decision can't be reached. 
Everyone was frustrated when the mistrial was declared, as it meant no verdict was given.