Venire Facias De Novo: A Comprehensive Guide to New Trials

Definition & Meaning

Venire facias de novo is a legal term that refers to a court order for a new trial. This order is issued when the initial trial is deemed invalid, often due to issues such as improper jury selection or an unclear verdict. Essentially, it allows the case to be retried to ensure a fair outcome. The term is often used when a party believes that errors occurred during the original proceedings that affect the trial's integrity.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

For instance, if a jury was selected from a biased pool, a party may file for a venire facias de novo to request a new trial. Another example could involve a jury delivering a verdict that is ambiguous, leading to confusion about the intended outcome of the case (hypothetical example).

State-by-state differences

State Key Differences
California Allows for a motion for a new trial based on jury misconduct.
New York Requires specific grounds for filing, such as newly discovered evidence.
Texas Has stringent time limits for filing a motion for a new trial.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Motion for New Trial A request to the court to nullify a jury's verdict and hold a new trial. Venire facias de novo specifically refers to the issuance of a new jury.
Mistrial A trial that is invalid due to error or procedural issues. A mistrial may lead to a venire facias de novo, but they are not the same.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe that your case warrants a new trial, it's crucial to gather evidence supporting your claim of error. Consider consulting with a legal professional to evaluate your situation and determine the best course of action. You can also explore US Legal Forms for templates that can assist you in filing the necessary motions.

Quick facts

  • Typical filing period: Varies by state, often within thirty days of the verdict.
  • Jurisdiction: Typically handled in the same court where the original trial occurred.
  • Possible outcomes: A new trial or affirmation of the original verdict.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

Its purpose is to allow a case to be retried when significant errors occurred in the original trial.