inconsistent verdicts

What are Inconsistent Verdicts?

December 27, 2017

If you or a loved one asks, “What are inconsistent verdicts?” you’re in good company. Many judges, juries, prosecutors, and attorneys question inconsistent verdicts.

At the time a jury verdict is announced, many months or years of hard work is complete. In most criminal cases, but particularly those dealing with complex issues, multiple parties, or claims, the jury may provide an inconsistent verdict.

In fact, when one performs a search for those cases in which an inconsistent jury verdict is noted (in LexisNexis or Westlaw), hundreds of federal cases raise this issue.

What happens with a verdict the attorney and his client can’t reconcile?