Legal Definitions - chance verdict

A chance verdict, also known as a gambling verdict, is a decision made by a jury based on luck rather than careful consideration of the evidence presented in a case. In other words, instead of discussing and analyzing the facts, some jurors might decide to flip a coin or draw straws to determine the outcome of the case.

For example, imagine a jury is deciding a case where the evidence is evenly split between the two sides. Some jurors might suggest flipping a coin to decide the winner, rather than continuing to deliberate and try to reach a consensus based on the evidence presented.

It's important to note that chance verdicts are illegal in the United States. This is because they do not ensure a fair and just outcome based on the evidence presented in a case.