Empanelling is a word that refers to the act of selecting a group of individuals for a specific purpose or task. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ɪmˈpænəlɪŋ/, which reflects its spelling. The first syllable "em" is pronounced with an unstressed schwa vowel, followed by the stressed syllable "pan." The second syllable "el" is pronounced with a schwa sound, and the final syllable "ing" is pronounced with a strong "ɪŋ" sound. This word is commonly used in legal contexts to refer to the process of selecting a jury.
Empanelling is a term often used in legal and judicial contexts, referring to the process of selecting and assembling a panel of individuals, such as jurors or arbitrators, who will be responsible for making decisions in legal proceedings. The purpose of empanelling is to establish a fair and impartial group of individuals who will evaluate the evidence presented and reach a verdict or decision based on their collective judgment.
Empanelling entails a systematic procedure where individuals are chosen from a larger pool of potential candidates to form the panel. The selection process typically involves screening applicants to ensure they meet certain eligibility criteria, such as age, citizenship, and absence of any conflicts of interest that might compromise their objectivity. Once the panel is formed, its members are sworn in, taking an oath to fulfill their responsibilities with integrity and impartiality.
During legal proceedings, empanelling is crucial as it guarantees a diverse range of perspectives and experiences within the panel, enhancing the likelihood of fair and unbiased decision-making. The empanelling process ensures that both sides of a dispute have an opportunity to participate in the selection of panel members, strengthening public confidence in the judicial system's impartiality.
In summary, empanelling is a process in which a panel of individuals is selected and assembled to make decisions in legal proceedings, serving as the cornerstone of fair and just adjudication by ensuring a diverse and impartial perspective.
The word "empanelling" is derived from the Old French term "empeignier", which means "to provide with panels". This term, in turn, is influenced by the Latin word "pinnula", meaning "small feather" or "fin". The usage of "empanelling" in English dates back to the 15th century and initially referred to the act of fitting a surface with panels or adjusting the paneling of a room. Over time, the term acquired a legal connotation, referring to the selection and formation of a panel of jury members, which is its most common usage today.