Legal Definitions - bench ruling

Definition: A bench ruling is a decision made by a judge during a trial or hearing that is announced verbally from the bench. It is not a written order or judgment.

Example: During a trial, a lawyer may object to a question asked by the opposing counsel. The judge may make a bench ruling, stating whether the objection is sustained (meaning the question cannot be asked) or overruled (meaning the question can be asked).

Another example: In a hearing for a restraining order, the judge may make a bench ruling on whether to grant or deny the request based on the evidence presented.

These examples illustrate how a bench ruling is a decision made by a judge during a legal proceeding that is announced verbally from the bench. It is important to note that a bench ruling is not a final decision and can be subject to change as the case progresses.