Hung Jury
What does “hung jury” mean?
A hung jury occurs when jurors cannot agree on a verdict, leading to a mistrial.
How common are hung juries?
Hung juries are relatively rare, but their frequency can vary based on the complexity of the case and the jurisdiction.
What happens after a hung jury?
After a hung jury, the case may be retried with a new jury, or the charges might be dropped, depending on the prosecution’s decision.
Can a hung jury decision be appealed?
No, a hung jury itself cannot be appealed because it is not a final verdict, but the case may be retried.
What causes a hung jury?
Causes include conflicting evidence, complex legal issues, diverse juror backgrounds, and strong personal beliefs among jurors.
What is the minimum number of jurors needed to avoid a hung jury?
The number of jurors required for a verdict varies by jurisdiction, but typically all must agree to avoid a hung jury in criminal cases.
Are hung juries more common in criminal or civil cases?
Hung juries are generally more common in criminal cases due to the requirement for unanimous verdicts, which are less common in civil cases.
Reference:
- Office of Justice Programs US
- United States Department of Justice
- Cornell Law School
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