A majority verdict occurs when the majority of jurors agree on a decision, while one or two jurors do not. In certain jurisdictions, a civil verdict can be upheld with the support of 10 out of 12 jurors. This differs from a unanimous verdict, where all jurors are in agreement with the decision.
A majority verdict occurs when all but one or two members of a jury agree on the decision. In certain jurisdictions, a civil verdict supported by 10 out of 12 jurors is considered valid. This type of verdict is applicable to both criminal and civil cases. For instance, in a criminal case, if 11 jurors find the defendant guilty while one juror disagrees, a majority verdict can be reached. Similarly, in a civil case, if 10 jurors agree on the outcome, a majority verdict can be reached. The purpose of majority verdicts is to avoid a hung jury, which happens when the jury fails to reach a unanimous decision. In such cases, a mistrial may be declared, and the case might need to be retried.
A majority verdict refers to a decision reached by a jury in a criminal trial where not all jurors agree unanimously. Instead, a majority of the jurors, typically two-thirds or three-fourths, must agree on the verdict.
In a unanimous verdict, all jurors must agree on the guilt or innocence of the defendant. However, in a majority verdict, only a majority of the jurors need to agree for a verdict to be reached.
A majority verdict can be used in certain criminal trials where the jury has been unable to reach a unanimous decision after a reasonable amount of deliberation. It is typically allowed in cases where a unanimous verdict is not required by law.
The purpose of allowing majority verdicts is to prevent hung juries and mistrials when unanimous agreement is not possible. It helps ensure that cases can be resolved efficiently and avoids unnecessary retrials.
Yes, there are limitations on when a majority verdict can be used. These limitations vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific laws governing the trial. Some jurisdictions may only allow majority verdicts in certain types of cases or for specific offenses.
Yes, a defendant can be convicted or acquitted by a majority verdict. If the majority of jurors agree on the defendant’s guilt, they can deliver a guilty verdict. Conversely, if the majority agrees on the defendant’s innocence, they can deliver an acquittal.
If the jury cannot reach a majority verdict, it may result in a hung jury. In such cases, the trial may end in a mistrial, and the prosecution may choose to retry the case with a new jury.
In most cases, a majority verdict cannot be appealed solely on the basis that it was a majority decision. However, if there are other legal grounds for an appeal, such as procedural errors or misconduct, the verdict can be challenged.
Majority verdicts are primarily used in criminal trials. In civil trials, the standard for reaching a verdict is usually based on a preponderance of the evidence or a clear majority, rather than requiring unanimity.
In some jurisdictions, a judge may have the power to override a majority verdict and declare a mistrial or order further deliberation. However, this authority is typically used sparingly and only in exceptional circumstances where there is a clear error or irregularity in the jury’s decision-making process.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.
To help you cite our definitions in your bibliography, here is the proper citation layout for the three major formatting styles, with all of the relevant information filled in.
- Page URL:https://dlssolicitors.com/define/majority-verdict/
- Modern Language Association (MLA):Majority Verdict. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. May 09 2024 https://dlssolicitors.com/define/majority-verdict/.
- Chicago Manual of Style (CMS):Majority Verdict. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. https://dlssolicitors.com/define/majority-verdict/ (accessed: May 09 2024).
- American Psychological Association (APA):Majority Verdict. dlssolicitors.com. Retrieved May 09 2024, from dlssolicitors.com website: https://dlssolicitors.com/define/majority-verdict/
Our team of professionals are based in Alderley Edge, Cheshire. We offer clear, specialist legal advice in all matters relating to Family Law, Wills, Trusts, Probate, Lasting Power of Attorney and Court of Protection.
All author posts