Trial Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Trial, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Trial?

1\) it is a display, discussion and examination of certain charges or claims and evidences in a fomal environment and set-up like a court presided by the judge and jury, to determine whether the claims and evidences are correct or not. 2)Act of testing the performance to ensure that it meets certain standard.

History and Definition of Trial

Trial refers to a formal legal proceeding, usually held in a courtroom, that involves witnesses, evidence, and arguments presented by both sides. In a criminal trial, the prosecution presents its case against the defendant, who is allowed to offer a defense. In a civil trial, two parties dispute a matter or claim, with each side presenting its case, and the judge or jury deciding the outcome. The trial has a long history dating back to ancient Greece and Rome and the concept of a fair and impartial trial is central to modern democracy.

Examples of Trial

  1. The trial of O.J. Simpson was one of the most famous trials in American history.
  2. The judge declared a mistrial due to the jury's inability to reach a verdict.
  3. The defendant's attorney cross-examined the witness during the trial.
  4. The trial took several weeks to complete, with both the prosecution and defense presenting extensive evidence.
  5. The jury's verdict came after deliberating for two days.

Legal Terms Similar to Trial

  1. Appeal - A legal process in which a higher court reviews a lower court's decision.
  2. Hearing - A less formal legal proceeding that may involve witnesses and evidence, but is typically shorter and less complex than a trial.
  3. Settlement - An agreement between parties in a lawsuit that resolves the matter before it goes to trial.
  4. Litigation - The act of engaging in a legal dispute, which may or may not include a trial.
  5. Arbitration - A process in which a neutral third party hears arguments and evidence from both sides and makes a decision, often used as an alternative to a trial.