Quotient Verdict: What It Means and Its Legal Implications

Q: Can a quotient verdict be challenged?

Yes, a quotient verdict can be set aside by a judge if it is determined to be improper.

Q: Are quotient verdicts common?

No, they are considered improper and are not a standard practice in jury trials.

Definition & Meaning

A quotient verdict is a method used by jurors to determine the amount of damages to be awarded in a legal case. When jurors disagree on the appropriate award, they may each write down their suggested amounts. These amounts are then totaled and divided by the number of jurors to arrive at an average figure. However, this practice is considered improper and illegal because it lacks a rational basis for the calculation. Courts can set aside such judgments if they are found to be based on this method.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

Quotient verdicts are primarily encountered in civil cases, particularly those involving personal injury or damages. This term is relevant in jury trials, where jurors are tasked with deciding on the compensation for a plaintiff. Because quotient verdicts do not reflect a careful consideration of the evidence or legal standards, they are generally not permissible in legal practice. Users can benefit from understanding this term when preparing for jury trials or when considering the implications of jury decisions in civil litigation.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

(hypothetical example) In a personal injury case, a jury may be split on how much to award the plaintiff. Juror A suggests $50,000, Juror B suggests $70,000, and Juror C suggests $30,000. Instead of discussing the merits of each suggestion, they calculate the average, resulting in a quotient verdict of $50,000. This verdict could be challenged and potentially overturned by a judge.

State-by-state differences

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

State	Notes on Quotient Verdicts
California	Quotient verdicts are not permissible and can be set aside.
New York	Similar restrictions apply; courts may overturn such verdicts.
Texas	Quotient verdicts are considered improper and can be challenged.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Definition	Difference
Compromise Verdict	A verdict reached when jurors negotiate to settle on an amount.	Unlike quotient verdicts, compromise verdicts are based on discussion and agreement.
General Verdict	A verdict that simply states which party wins and the amount awarded.	General verdicts do not involve averaging juror suggestions like quotient verdicts.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in a case where a quotient verdict may arise, it's important to understand its implications. If you believe a jury has reached a quotient verdict, you may want to consult a legal professional to discuss your options for challenging the verdict. Additionally, you can explore US Legal Forms' templates for legal documents related to jury trials and appeals as a cost-effective way to manage your case.

Find the legal form that fits your case

Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.

This field is required

Quick facts

Typical setting: Civil jury trials
Potential penalties: Verdicts can be set aside
Jurisdiction: Varies by state

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

What is a quotient verdict?

A quotient verdict is an average of amounts suggested by jurors, used to determine damages in a case, but it is illegal.