(~s)
1.
A ~ is a legal trial that is conducted unfairly, for example because not all the evidence is considered, so that there must be a new trial.
The past has been scarred by countless ~s and perversions of justice.
N-COUNT
2.
A ~ is a legal trial which ends without a verdict, for example because the jury cannot agree on one. (AM)
The judge said he would declare a ~ if the jury did not reach its verdict today.
N-COUNT