Legal Definitions - manifest constitutional error

Definition: A mistake made by a trial court that has a significant negative impact on the trial, compromising the constitutional rights of a party.

Manifest constitutional error is a type of error that occurs during a trial that affects the constitutional rights of a party. This type of error is significant enough to compromise the fairness of the trial. It can be reviewed by a court of appeals even if the appellant did not object at trial.

Example: During a criminal trial, the judge allows the prosecutor to present evidence that was obtained illegally. This evidence is crucial to the prosecution's case, and the defendant's constitutional rights were violated when it was obtained. This is an example of manifest constitutional error because the defendant's right to a fair trial was compromised.

Example: In a civil trial, the judge allows the jury to hear testimony that is not relevant to the case. This testimony unfairly prejudices the jury against one of the parties. This is an example of manifest constitutional error because the party's right to a fair trial was compromised.