Criminology Term: Overrule
The word 'overrule' is a term that frequently arises in legal proceedings, with a multifaceted meaning depending on the context in which it is used. It generally denotes a decision made by a judge or a higher court, which carries significant legal consequences.
In one sense, when a judge overrules an objection raised by an attorney during a trial, it means that the judge has dismissed the objection and allowed the disputed testimony or evidence to be admitted.
Conversely, if a judge sustains an objection, it means that the judge has upheld the objection, and the evidence or testimony is disallowed.
In addition to its usage in trial proceedings, 'overrule' can also describe a decision made by an appellate court, which sets aside or overturns a lower court's verdict or ruling.
For instance, if a defendant is convicted and sentenced by a lower court, but the defendant files an appeal, the higher court may overrule the decision of the lower court and order a retrial or a different sentence.
Thus, the word 'overrule' signifies a legal decision that carries substantial weight and impact on the outcome of a case.
Its meaning varies depending on the context in which it is used, but its importance remains constant in the realm of law and justice.
