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MIAMI A
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LSDefine
Simple English definitions for legal terms
majority verdict
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A quick definition of majority verdict:
A majority verdict is when most of the people on a jury agree on a decision, but one or two people do not. In some places, a civil verdict can be supported by 10 out of 12 jurors. This is different from a unanimous verdict, where everyone on the jury agrees on the decision.A more thorough explanation:
A majority verdict is a decision made by a jury in which all but one or two members agree on the outcome. In some places, a civil verdict supported by 10 out of 12 jurors is acceptable. This type of verdict is used in both criminal and civil cases.
For example, in a criminal case, if 11 jurors agree that the defendant is guilty and one juror disagrees, a majority verdict can be reached. In a civil case, if 10 jurors agree on the outcome, a majority verdict can be reached.
Majority verdicts are used to prevent a hung jury, which is when the jury cannot reach a unanimous decision. This can lead to a mistrial and the case may need to be retried.