Sometimes we really need to update the language that's still used in court.

"Silent by choice or not" is what they mean.
RT @t_seaward: Welcome to the crown court, where the judge is wondering whether a defendant is 'mute by visitation of God🙏 or mute by malice🗯️'.

"I've not encountered this procedure before," says prosecutor.

🐦🔗: https://nitter.eu/AntonyHookLD/status/1595171392680562721