A general verdict with interrogatories is a type of jury verdict that includes a general decision alongside written answers to specific questions posed by the judge. These questions, known as interrogatories, help clarify the jury's reasoning behind their verdict. This process allows the court to understand the factual basis for the jury's decision, which can be crucial in complex cases.
This term is commonly used in civil litigation, where a jury is tasked with determining the facts of a case. By providing both a general verdict and answers to interrogatories, the court can ensure a more informed judgment. Legal professionals often utilize templates and forms to create the necessary documents for submitting interrogatories, which can streamline the process for users who may be handling their cases independently.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
(Hypothetical example) In a personal injury case, the jury may be asked to decide if the defendant was negligent and, if so, to what extent. Alongside their general verdict, they might answer specific questions about the circumstances of the accident, such as whether the defendant was speeding or if the plaintiff was partially at fault.
According to the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, Rule 49 allows courts to submit general verdict forms with interrogatories. Additionally, state statutes, such as K.S.A. § 60-249 in Kansas, outline similar provisions for jury instructions and verdicts.
| State | Key Differences |
|---|---|
| Kansas | Allows judges to submit written interrogatories upon request and provides specific guidelines for handling inconsistent verdicts. |
| California | Similar provisions exist, but the process for jury instructions may differ slightly in terms of format and requirements. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition | Differences |
|---|---|---|
| General Verdict | A jury's overall decision without specific findings on factual issues. | Does not include written answers to interrogatories. |
| Special Verdict | A verdict where the jury answers specific questions but does not provide a general conclusion. | Focuses solely on factual questions rather than a general decision. |
If you find yourself involved in a case where a general verdict with interrogatories may be relevant, consider the following steps:
A general verdict is the jury's overall decision on the case without detailing the specific factual findings.
