term:

Deadlock

deadlock n

: a state of inaction resulting from the opposition of equally powerful uncompromising persons or factions: as
a : the state of a jury unable to agree on a verdict see also allen charge
b : impasse
c : a state in which corporate directors are unable to perform their functions because of shareholder voting
deadlock vb

Source: Merriam-Webster's Dictionary of Law ©1996. Merriam-Webster, Incorporated. Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.