When a defense attorney objects, what is the term for the judge's decision to maintain the question?

The correct term for the judge's decision to maintain the question after a defense attorney objects is "overrule." When a judge overrules an objection, it means that the judge has determined that the question can be asked and answered, allowing the line of questioning to continue in the courtroom. This is a common procedure during legal proceedings, reflecting the judge's role in ensuring that the trial proceeds fairly while respecting legal boundaries.

The term "grant" generally refers to the judge agreeing to a request, such as allowing a motion to admit evidence, which is different from maintaining a question. "Rules" does not specifically pertain to the context of objections in the courtroom; it refers more broadly to the legal guidelines or principles that govern the proceedings. "Deny" would imply that the judge is rejecting the objection, which does not accurately describe the process of maintaining the question itself. Thus, "overrule" is the most precise term in this context.