Impanel - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

legal context

To impanel means to select and enlist a jury from the eligible candidates to hear a case in a court of law. This process involves the examination of potential jurors to determine their suitability and impartiality for serving on a specific case. It is a critical step in ensuring a fair trial by gathering a group of individuals who can listen to the evidence presented.

Synonyms

assign, constitute, select.

Examples of usage

The judge will impanel the jury next week.
They had to impanel a diverse group of jurors.
After careful consideration, the court decided to impanel a new jury.

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

In the legal system, a jury is impaneled to ensure a fair trial by randomly selecting citizens.
Judges usually impanel juries, which are made up of 12 people in many jurisdictions.
The process of impaneling involves questioning potential jurors to ensure they can be impartial.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, the idea of gathering a council mirrors the process of impaneling for other community decisions.
Game shows often feature panels of experts or celebrities who provide insights, paralleling the impaneling concept but for entertainment.
Organizations sometimes impanel groups for focus studies and community input, emphasizing the democratic aspect of decision-making.

Psychology

Group dynamics are a significant factor when selecting panel members; their interactions can influence outcomes.
Cognitive diversity within an impaneled group enhances creativity and problem-solving effectiveness.
The concept of 'wisdom of crowds' suggests that diverse groups may make better decisions collectively than individuals alone.

Pop Culture

Television shows like 'The Voice' feature judges or panels that 'impanel' their teams of singers to compete.
In contemporary debates, panels are often used to discuss varying viewpoints, allowing the audience to hear diverse opinions.
Impaneled panels of experts are frequently seen in documentaries to provide credibility and insights on specific topics.

Origin of 'impanel'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Middle French 'paneller,' meaning 'to form a panel.'
It entered English in the late 15th century, often in legal contexts.
Outside of legal settings, it can refer to forming a group for any decision-making purpose.

The term 'impanel' originates from the mid-16th century. It is derived from the combination of the prefix 'in-' meaning 'into' or 'on' and 'panel', which itself comes from the old French 'panel', referring to a rectangle piece of cloth or a slice of material used as a board. In the legal context, the usage evolved to denote assembling a group, as a panel of jurors, to hear a case. The use of juries in legal proceedings dates back to ancient societies, but the formalization of the juror selection process became established in England and later adapted in various common law countries, including the United States. This linguistic evolution reflects the systematization of legal practices and the increasing importance of citizen involvement in justice.

Impanel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations