Definition
When a jury acquits a defendant despite clear evidence of guilt because they disagree with the law or its application. The ultimate expression of 'we know they did it, but we don't care.'
Example Usage
The acquittal was a clear case of jury nullification—everyone knew he was guilty, but the jury objected to the law itself.
Origin
From the power of juries to 'nullify' or override the law
Fun Fact
Judges generally won't tell jurors they have the power of nullification, and lawyers can be sanctioned for explicitly encouraging it, creating a sort of legal 'don't ask, don't tell' situation.
Source: Criminal law and jury practice terminology
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See “jury nullification” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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