How Do You Spell ALTERNATE VERDICT?

Pronunciation: [ɔːltˈɜːnət vˈɜːdɪkt] (IPA)

The spelling for "alternate verdict" can be a bit tricky, but using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) can make it easier. The first syllable is pronounced "AWL-ter-nit," with the emphasis on the "AWL" sound. The second syllable is pronounced "vur-dikt," with the emphasis on the "vur" sound. This legal term refers to a jury's decision to acquit the defendant of the primary charge while finding them guilty of a lesser charge. The spelling of the word is important in legal proceedings to ensure clarity and accuracy.

ALTERNATE VERDICT Meaning and Definition

1. An alternate verdict refers to a legal term used in the field of criminal law to describe a decision made by a jury in a trial. It denotes a situation where the jury is unable to reach a unanimous agreement on the primary charge against the defendant, but is able to agree on a different charge or charges provided as alternatives by the court.

   When jurors are unable to come to a unanimous decision on the primary charge, they may be instructed by the judge to consider an alternate verdict. This allows the jury to deliberate and reach a unanimous decision on a different charge that may be related to or stemming from the primary charge against the defendant.

   The specific charges presented as alternate verdict options by the court typically depend on the particular facts and circumstances of the case. The purpose of providing these alternative charges is to offer the jury additional options for reaching a consensus, ensuring the trial proceeds towards a resolution.

   In cases where an alternate verdict is reached, the defendant may still face legal consequences, albeit different from those associated with the primary charge. It is important to note that an alternate verdict does not indicate an acquittal or exoneration. Rather, it reflects the jury's inability to reach a unanimous decision on the primary charge while finding the defendant guilty or not guilty of the alternate charges provided.

Etymology of ALTERNATE VERDICT

The term "alternate verdict" is composed of two words: "alternate" and "verdict".

The word "alternate" comes from the Latin word "alternatus", which means "to do one thing, then another". It is derived from the verb "alternare", meaning "to alternate" or "to do in turn", which itself is derived from "alternus", meaning "every other".

The word "verdict" has its roots in Old English and Latin. In Old English, "verdict" was "wered", which meant "truth" or "judgment". In Latin, it comes from "verus" meaning "true" and "dicere" meaning "to say" or "to speak". Thus, "verdict" refers to a decision or judgment spoken or declared in a legal context.