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Simple English definitions for legal terms
defective verdict
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A quick definition of defective verdict:
A defective verdict is a decision made by a jury that is so flawed that it cannot be used to make a judgment. This can happen if there were mistakes made during the decision-making process or if there are contradictions in the final decision. If this happens, the judge may ask for more discussion or declare a mistrial. For example, if the jury was given incorrect instructions, the verdict may be considered defective.
A more thorough explanation:
A defective verdict is a decision made by a jury that is flawed to such an extent that a judgment cannot be based on it. This can happen for several reasons, such as procedural irregularities during deliberations or contradictions in the substantive conclusions.
- In Sullivan v. Louisiana (1993), the jury was given a "constitutionally defective" reasonable doubt instruction, which rendered the verdict defective.
- In People v. Jolly (2001), the verdict was defective due to inconsistencies in the evidence presented during the trial.
- In Lau v. Goord (2008), the verdict was defective because the jury was not properly instructed on the law.
These examples illustrate how a verdict can be defective due to various reasons, such as improper instructions given to the jury or inconsistencies in the evidence presented. When a verdict is defective, the judge may call for more deliberations or declare a mistrial if the problems cannot be resolved.