Political defense
Encyclopedia
A political defense is one used by a defendant
that relies on political arguments for acquittal. The necessity defense can sometimes be used for this purpose, and shadow defense
s are also sometimes used. In countries that have jury trial
s, the defendant may seek jury nullification
.
Defendant
A defendant or defender is any party who is required to answer the complaint of a plaintiff or pursuer in a civil lawsuit before a court, or any party who has been formally charged or accused of violating a criminal statute...
that relies on political arguments for acquittal. The necessity defense can sometimes be used for this purpose, and shadow defense
Shadow defense
A shadow defense is a legal defense that cannot be sustained on its own merits, but which opens the door to introducing evidence that will assist in seeking jury nullification, and gives the jury an excuse to acquit...
s are also sometimes used. In countries that have jury trial
Jury trial
A jury trial is a legal proceeding in which a jury either makes a decision or makes findings of fact which are then applied by a judge...
s, the defendant may seek jury nullification
Jury nullification
Jury nullification occurs in a trial when a jury reaches a verdict contrary to the judge's instructions as to the law.A jury verdict contrary to the letter of the law pertains only to the particular case before it; however, if a pattern of acquittals develops in response to repeated attempts to...
.