How is a verdict reached?
After receiving instruction from the judge, the jurors as a group consider the case through a process called “deliberation,” attempting to agree on whether the defendant should be held liable for the plaintiff’s claimed injuries, and if so, the appropriate compensation for those injuries. Deliberation is the first opportunity for the jury to discuss the case—a methodical process that can last from a few hours to several weeks. Once the jury reaches a decision, the jury foreperson informs the judge, and the judge usually announces the verdict in open court. California requires a two-thirds majority, or nine out of a twelve-person jury to find for the plaintiff or the defendant. If the jury fails to reach a sufficient majority verdict and finds itself at a standstill (a “hung” jury), the judge may declare a “mistrial,” after which the case may be dismissed or the trial may start over again from the jury selection stage.
