Trial Practice
Verdict
The verdict resolves the questions the jury was asked, typically liability, comparative fault, and damages. Federal civil juries must ordinarily reach a unanimous verdict unless the parties stipulate otherwise.
The court enters judgment on the verdict, which starts post-trial and appellate deadlines.
Alternative Names:
Jury Verdict, Trial Verdict
Why it Matters?
The verdict is not the end of the exposure analysis. Post-trial motions, additur and remittitur, setoffs for prior settlements, comparative fault reductions, and interest calculations can all change what is ultimately owed. In insurance cases the verdict also determines whether an excess judgment exists, which converts the matter into a potential bad faith claim against the carrier.
Frequently Confused with
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
Must a civil jury verdict be unanimous?
Is the verdict the final amount owed?
