verb phrase · formal
declare a mistrial
UK/dɪˈkleə ə ˈmɪstraɪəl/US/dɪˈklɛr ə ˈmɪstraɪəl/de·CLARE a MIS·trial
to officially end a trial without a verdict because of a serious error or problem
Examples
“The defense sought to declare a mistrial after juror misconduct was discovered.”
“A mistrial was declared when the jury was found to have discussed the case outside court.”
“In extreme cases the judge may declare a mistrial and schedule a new hearing.”
Band 8 sentence
“After evidence showed the jury had been exposed to media reports, the judge declared a mistrial to protect the defendant’s right to a fair hearing.”
Collocations
- declare a mistrial due to
- ask the judge to declare a mistrial
Word family
Common mistakes
cancel the trial→declare a mistrial
declare mistrial→declare a mistrial
Say it for a higher band
5cancel the trial→6call off the trial→7+declare a mistrial
Synonyms
call off the trial
Easily confused
call off the trial
“The prosecution called off the trial after new evidence emerged.”
Related words
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