Empaneled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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empaneled
[ɪmˈpænəld ]
Definition
legal context
The term 'empaneled' refers to the act of selecting or appointing individuals to serve on a jury. In legal proceedings, jurors are empaneled to hear evidence and make a decision on the case at hand. This process ensures that a group of impartial citizens is available to review the facts and render a verdict. The empaneling of a jury is typically conducted by a judge during the jury selection phase of a trial.
Synonyms
appointed, designated, selected.
Examples of usage
- The judge empaneled the jurors for the trial.
- During the pre-trial process, several potential jurors were empaneled.
- The legal team was present when the jury was empaneled.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Legal System
- In legal terms, being empaneled usually refers to jurors being selected to serve on a jury for a trial.
- The selection process for a jury is often based on random choices from a pool of eligible citizens.
- Jurors who are empaneled are tasked with deliberation to reach a verdict on cases presented in court.
Cultural Significance
- The concept of empaneling reflects the importance of community involvement in justice systems around the world.
- In some cultures, the process of creating a jury is seen as a way to ensure fairness and representation in legal proceedings.
- Historical trials have shown that diverse panels contribute to more balanced perspectives in verdicts.
Educational Context
- Schools and organizations sometimes empanel groups of experts to make decisions about educational policies.
- Empaneling in an educational context can involve gathering teachers, community members, and administrators to address issues.
- The practice encourages collaborative problem-solving and inclusive decision-making processes.
Psychology
- Research suggests that groups work more effectively when composed of individuals with diverse viewpoints, akin to a jury.
- Empaneling decision-makers in various fields can reduce bias and improve outcomes due to shared knowledge.
- The social dynamics within a group that has been empaneled can lead to different levels of engagement and discussion styles.
Origin of 'empaneled'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Middle French term 'empaneler', which means to put on a panel.
- Its roots can be traced back to the word 'panel', coming from the Latin 'pannellus', meaning a small cloth or piece.
- Initially, it referred to selecting a group for a specific function, particularly in legal contexts.
The word 'empaneled' is derived from the term 'panel,' which has its origins in the Old French word 'panel' meaning 'a piece, a slice,' and in Middle Latin 'pannellus,' meaning 'a small cloth.' The transformation into the legal context arose as the idea of a cohort of individuals serving together on a jury or committee came to be consolidated under one term. As legal systems evolved, the process of empaneling jurors became standardized, whereby each member of the jury is selected from the community to ensure a fair trial. 'Empanel' became widely adopted in legal lexicon by the early 19th century, reflecting the participatory nature of jury service in a democratic society.