merciful verdict
[MER-suh-fuhl VER-dikt]
noun phrasepl: merciful verdicts
sentença misericordiosa
1. A judicial decision or judgment that is lenient, compassionate, or shows clemency toward the defendant; a verdict that is less severe than expected
The jury returned a merciful verdict, acquitting the defendant on the most serious charges despite evidence of guilt.
O júri proferiu uma sentença misericordiosa, absolvendo o réu das acusações mais graves apesar das provas de culpa.
2. A court ruling that demonstrates compassion, forgiveness, or leniency based on mitigating circumstances
Given his difficult upbringing, the merciful verdict allowed him a second chance.
Dada sua infância difícil, a sentença misericordiosa lhe permitiu uma segunda chance.
In both American and Brazilian legal systems, a merciful verdict is often celebrated as a triumph of justice tempered with compassion. In the USA, such verdicts may reflect jury nullification or the judge's discretion during sentencing. In Brazil, merciful verdicts are particularly noted in cases involving defendants with difficult socioeconomic backgrounds or those who show genuine remorse, reflecting cultural values of redemption and second chances.
NYC Slang
a get-out-of-jail card; a break from the judge
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