Legal Definitions - writ of venire facias

A writ of venire facias is a legal document that directs a sheriff to assemble a jury. It is often shortened to "venire." The writ is used in various legal proceedings, including criminal trials and civil cases.

• Venire facias: A judge issues a writ of venire facias to the sheriff, instructing them to summon a jury for a criminal trial.
• Venire facias de novo: If there is an irregularity in the original jury's return or verdict, a writ of venire facias de novo may be issued to summon a new jury panel for a new trial.
• Venire facias tot matronas: This writ requires a sheriff to summon a jury of matrons to execute a writ de ventre inspiciendo, which is a legal order to examine a woman who claims to be pregnant.

These examples illustrate how a writ of venire facias is used in different legal contexts. The writ is an important tool for ensuring that a fair and impartial jury is assembled for a trial or other legal proceeding.