mute When asked to plead, an accused person may stand mute. If considered to be mute of malice (i.e., deliberately silent) a plea of not guilty is entered for him and the trial proceeds. If considered mute by visitation of God (i.e., deaf and dumb) an attempt is made to make him understand and answer the charge by some means and where this fails, a plea of not guilty is entered for him. Where there is doubt a jury will decide.