Legal Definitions - split verdict

Definition: A verdict in which one party prevails on some claims, while the other party prevails on others. In criminal law, it can also refer to a verdict finding a defendant guilty on one charge but not guilty on another or a verdict of guilty for one defendant and not guilty for a co-defendant.

Example: In a civil case, a split verdict may occur if the jury finds the defendant liable for some but not all of the plaintiff's claims. For example, if a plaintiff sues for both breach of contract and negligence, the jury may find the defendant liable for breach of contract but not for negligence. In a criminal case, a split verdict may occur if the jury finds the defendant guilty of one charge but not guilty of another charge. For example, if a defendant is charged with both murder and manslaughter, the jury may find the defendant guilty of manslaughter but not guilty of murder.

Explanation: A split verdict occurs when the jury or judge decides in favor of one party on some claims or charges but not on others. This can happen in both civil and criminal cases. In civil cases, a split verdict may result in the plaintiff receiving compensation for some but not all of their claims. In criminal cases, a split verdict may result in the defendant being convicted of some but not all of the charges against them.