The term 'CRIMINAL TRIAL' can be broken down into two crossword solutions: OYER and 4 letters. OYER is a legal term that refers to the right of a court to hear and determine a case. It is derived from the French word oyer, which means 'to hear.' The 4 letters refer to the fact that criminal trials are typically conducted in a court of law, where a judge or jury hears evidence and renders a verdict.