Impaneled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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impaneled
[ɪmˈpænəld ]
Definition
legal context
The term 'impaneled' refers to the process of selecting and swearing in a jury for a trial. This involves gathering a group of citizens who meet specific legal criteria and asking them to serve as jurors. The judge oversees this process, ensuring that the selected jurors are unbiased and capable of rendering a fair verdict. Impaneling is a critical step in the judicial process, as it helps ensure that the rights of the defendant and the interests of justice are adequately represented.
Synonyms
appointed, selected, summoned.
Examples of usage
- The jury was impaneled on Monday.
- The judge impaneled a diverse group of jurors.
- After deliberation, the court impaneled the jury.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Legal Context
- In legal contexts, an 'impaneled' jury is summoned for a trial, representing the community in the justice process.
- The impaneling process involves selecting jurors based on impartiality and ability to judge fairly.
- Special panels, such as advisory panels, are often impaneled to provide expert opinions on complex issues, like scientific investigations.
Cultural Significance
- Different cultures have various traditions of impaneling groups for decision-making, often reflecting community values and traditions.
- In many indigenous cultures, councils are impaneled from community members to discuss and resolve local issues, showcasing democratic practices.
- The concept of being impaneled not only applies to juries but also to community boards that influence social policies.
Psychology
- Studies show that group decision-making can be influenced by the dynamics within an impaneled group, affecting outcomes.
- The phenomenon of 'groupthink' can emerge, where harmony in a group leads to poor decision-making, highlighting the need for diverse representation.
- Impaneled groups that encourage open dialogue tend to arrive at more innovative solutions.
Pop Culture
- Television shows often depict courtroom dramas where juries are impaneled, dramatizing the tension and responsibility of group decision-making.
- Reality shows have adopted the concept by impaneling groups of experts to judge contestants based on specific criteria.
- The portrayal of impaneled discussions in movies serves to highlight the weighty nature of collective decisions on justice and societal issues.
Origin of 'impaneled'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Middle French 'panel', meaning 'a piece or section', originally referring to a flat surface or board.
- It transitioned into English in the late 15th century, reflecting the practice of forming a group on a designated board for specific tasks.
- The prefix 'im-' indicates 'in' or 'into', highlighting the assembly of a group into a structured format.
The word 'impaneled' is derived from the noun 'panel,' which refers to a group selected for a specific purpose. The etymology traces back to the later Middle English word 'panel,' originating from the Old French word 'panneau,' meaning a board or a flat piece of material. The addition of the prefix 'im-' signifies 'to put in or onto,' thus creating the verb form 'impanel.' Historically, this term has been closely associated with legal proceedings, particularly in the context of jury selection which became an organized aspect of the legal system in the 16th century. By the 19th century, impaneling juries became a formalized process in many jurisdictions, ensuring that civic duties were met and that justice was served impartially. The term is still actively used in modern legal contexts across common law jurisdictions.