A verdict is a decision usually made by a jury on a disputed issue in a civil or criminal case. In the majority of personal injury cases, a resolution is reached without ever having to go through trial. However, where necessary proceedings are held and after careful review by an impartial jury–the verdict will be issued on who has right in their claim as well any entitlements or damages that have been incurred; finally sealed with an order known as a decision from the presiding judge.
Settlements and verdicts are two very different approaches to resolving a personal injury claim, with each providing its own unique benefits. Settlements allow parties to negotiate an agreement privately out of court while avoiding the uncertainty that comes from going in front of a judge or jury. Once signed by both sides and filed with the courts, however, settlements become legally binding just like any other judicial decree.
You may be presented not just one but multiple settlement offers. Choosing whether or not to take them requires considerable deliberation and expertise – this is why we always advise attaching an experienced legal representative to your case. There are advantages as well as disadvantages associated with taking these settlements: opting for greater financial awards through trial could backfire if you end up being held liable; whereas settling early can help limit court fees while providing quicker resolution (though likely at lower payouts). To ensure that both your purse strings and rights remain protected during such delicate decisions, nothing beats having qualified counsel by your side each step of the way.
How is the Verdict Decided by a Jury?
With precise instructions from the judge, juries are tasked with using their reasoning to find a verdict. To reach that outcome they must draw on all information gathered during trial – taking close note of it and weighing in its implications. This process can take any amount of time depending on how involved jurors choose to get upon entering deliberation; an hour or two if swift justice is called for, but sometimes measuring up days’ worth of debate before deciding one way or another. Juries may consider the following factors:
- Evidence supporting your case: Jurors are given the opportunity to evaluate relevant evidence firsthand during deliberations, providing a comprehensive look at each case.
- Legal definition of negligence: The judge briefs the jury on essential legal terms and criteria for negligence to ensure that their determination is based not only in justice, but also in sound common sense.
- Sympathy for your position: Emotions can play a powerful role in the jury’s decisions – if they perceive your story as compelling and sympathetic, it could lead to more favorable outcomes. Connecting with jurors on an emotional level is key when seeking damages for pain, suffering or losses.
How is the Final Amount Chosen?
The jury has the responsibility of disbursing your damages. Though certain quantifiable losses are easily calculable, others depend more on a subjective evaluation and may vary in amount depending on where you live. Juries in rural areas might take into account their own personal backgrounds when determining an award for non-economic pain and suffering that can’t be as concretely proven through reoccurring bills or receipts–ultimately leading to disparate verdicts between cities and countrysides alike.
