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Simple English definitions for legal terms
general verdict
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A quick definition of general verdict:
A general verdict is when a group of people called a jury decides who should win a court case without explaining why. They don't have to give reasons for their decision, but sometimes the judge can ask them to answer questions about specific facts. If their answers don't match their decision, the judge can order a new trial. This is different from a special verdict, where the jury lists specific facts but doesn't say who wins the case.
A more thorough explanation:
A general verdict is a decision made by a jury in a court case where they determine which party should win without providing specific details on the disputed issues. The jury is not required to explain their reasoning behind their decision.
For example, in a personal injury case, the jury may decide that the defendant is responsible for the plaintiff's injuries and award damages without specifying which actions of the defendant caused the injuries.
However, the court may require the jury to answer written questions about specific findings of fact when issuing a general verdict. If the answers to these questions are inconsistent with the verdict, the judge can order a new trial.
A general verdict is different from a special verdict, where the jury lists specific findings of factual issues but does not declare who wins the overall case.