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Simple English definitions for legal terms
bench ruling
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A quick definition of bench ruling:
Term: BENCH RULING
Definition: A bench ruling is when a judge gives a decision or ruling verbally while sitting on the bench in the courtroom. This means that the judge does not write down the decision, but instead speaks it out loud for everyone in the courtroom to hear.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: A bench ruling is a decision made by a judge during a trial or hearing that is announced verbally from the bench. It is not a written order or judgment.
Example: During a trial, a lawyer may object to a question asked by the opposing counsel. The judge may make a bench ruling, stating whether the objection is sustained (meaning the question cannot be asked) or overruled (meaning the question can be asked).
Another example: In a hearing for a restraining order, the judge may make a bench ruling on whether to grant or deny the request based on the evidence presented.
These examples illustrate how a bench ruling is a decision made by a judge during a legal proceeding that is announced verbally from the bench. It is important to note that a bench ruling is not a final decision and can be subject to change as the case progresses.