Legal Definitions - How say you

How say you is an archaic legal phrase historically used by a judge to formally inquire about a jury's decision in a trial. It is a direct question asking the jury to state their verdict, essentially meaning, "What is your finding?" or "What is your decision?" While no longer commonly used in modern courtrooms, it represents the pivotal moment when the jury delivers its judgment.

• Imagine a courtroom scene from a historical drama set in 19th-century America. After days of testimony and deliberation, the jury foreman stands. The judge, in a solemn tone, addresses the jury, saying, "Members of the jury, have you reached a verdict? How say you?" This question directly prompts the jury to announce whether they find the defendant guilty or not guilty of the charges.

• Consider a contemporary criminal trial where the jury has just returned from their deliberations. The judge looks at the jury foreman and asks, "Mr. Foreman, has the jury reached a unanimous verdict on the charge of aggravated assault?" Although the judge doesn't use the exact phrase "How say you," the intent of the question is identical: to solicit the jury's final, formal decision regarding the defendant's guilt or innocence.

• In a complex civil lawsuit concerning a property dispute, the jury has been tasked with determining liability and assessing damages. After reviewing all the evidence and deliberating, the jury signals they have reached a conclusion. The judge then asks the foreman, "Madam Foreperson, has the jury come to a decision regarding the plaintiff's claim against the defendant and the requested compensation?" This question, though phrased differently, serves the same fundamental purpose as "How say you," demanding the jury's definitive answer to the legal questions presented to them.