Which term refers to a trial ending due to a major problem, such as prejudicial remarks?

• A. Judgment
• B. Mistrial
• C. Writ of execution
• D. Cross-examination

Answer: (B)

A trial can be halted and begun again if a major problem prevents a fair proceeding. When prejudicial remarks or similar serious errors occur, the judge may declare a mistrial, which ends the current trial without a verdict and allows the case to be retried with safeguards. This differs from a judgment, which is the final decision reached after a trial. A writ of execution comes after a judgment and is used to enforce payment, not to end the trial. Cross-examination is just the questioning of a witness during the trial and does not terminate the proceedings.