Jury Agreement Definition: Understanding the Legal Term
A jury agreement is a legal term used to define the unanimous agreement made by a group of jurors regarding a case. This agreement is a crucial component of the judicial system, as it ensures that justice is served in a fair and impartial manner.
In order to understand the term, it`s important to first have a basic understanding of how a trial works. In most cases, a jury is selected to hear the evidence presented by both the prosecution and defense. After hearing all the evidence, the jurors are then asked to deliberate and reach a decision on whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty.
A jury agreement is made when all the jurors unanimously agree on the verdict. This means that all the jurors must agree on whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty. If there is a disagreement among the jurors, then the case is declared a mistrial, and a new trial may be scheduled.
It`s important to note that a jury agreement is required in criminal cases, but not in civil cases. In civil cases, a simple majority of jurors is all that is required to reach a verdict. This is because civil cases generally involve disputes between individuals or companies, rather than criminal acts.
In criminal cases, the requirement for a unanimous jury agreement is crucial to protect the defendant`s rights and ensure that justice is served fairly. The principle of “innocent until proven guilty” is a cornerstone of the judicial system, and a unanimous jury agreement helps to ensure that the defendant is not wrongfully convicted.
In addition to determining the verdict, a jury agreement can also impact the sentencing phase of a trial. For example, if a defendant is found guilty of a crime, the jury may be required to agree on the appropriate sentence. Again, a unanimous agreement must be reached in order for the sentence to be imposed.
In conclusion, a jury agreement is a key component of the judicial system, ensuring that justice is served fairly and impartially. Jury agreements are required in criminal cases and play a critical role in protecting the rights of defendants. Understanding this important legal term is crucial for anyone involved in the legal system.