Verdicts

A verdict is the official decision issued by a court at the end of a trial. It typically reflects the jury's findings of fact together with the court's application of the law, or the judge's conclusions in a bench trial. Verdicts resolve questions of guilt, liability, or damages depending on the case.

In criminal trials, the verdict usually declares the defendant guilty or not guilty, based on whether the prosecution proved guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Some jurisdictions use special verdicts that specify findings on individual elements of the offense; the overall result determines any sentence and further proceedings.

In civil trials, verdicts determine liability and, when applicable, damages. The standard of proof is usually a preponderance of the evidence or, in some contexts, a higher standard such as clear and convincing evidence. The verdict allocates responsibility and may trigger monetary awards or other relief.

Common outcomes beyond a straightforward verdict include hung juries, which yield a mistrial and may lead to retrial. A directed verdict happens when a judge determines that no reasonable jury could reach a different outcome on the facts. A judgment notwithstanding the verdict can be entered when the judge determines the verdict is unsupported by the evidence, typically after the jury has reached a decision.

Verdicts vary in their procedural requirements. Criminal juries often must be unanimous in many jurisdictions, while civil juries may require a majority or supermajority. Some systems also allow nonunanimous verdicts under certain conditions. After a verdict, parties may seek post-trial motions or appeal on legal grounds.

The verdict marks the trial's final determinative outcome and governs subsequent consequences, such as sentencing in criminal cases or damages and remedies in civil cases. It also shapes future litigation, appeals, and potential collateral effects for the parties involved.