# retrial

/ɹiˈtɹaɪəɫ/ (US) · /ɹˈiːtɹaɪəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/retrial
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

a second court trial for a case that has already been decided. This happens when a mistake is found in the first trial or if new evidence comes to light.

For teachers: a subsequent trial of a case after a previous verdict has been overturned or set aside. Often occurs due to procedural errors, newly discovered evidence, or a successful appeal.

## Examples

- The judge ordered a retrial after the jury reached a deadlocked verdict.
- Following the discovery of new forensic evidence, the defense attorney requested a retrial to ensure a fair assessment of the facts.
- The appellate court granted a retrial, citing that the original defense counsel had failed to present a critical piece of evidence that could have significantly altered the jury's perception of the defendant's intent.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.