What does it mean when a jury is described as deadlocked?

What does it mean when a jury is described as deadlocked?

• A. The jury cannot reach a unanimous verdict
• B. The jury has completed their deliberations
• C. The jury has reached a final decision
• D. The jury is dismissed from the case

Answer: (A)

When a jury is described as deadlocked, it signifies that the jury is unable to reach a unanimous verdict on the case. This situation often occurs when jurors have differing opinions on the case's outcome and cannot come to an agreement even after extensive deliberation. Consequently, a deadlocked jury can lead to various legal outcomes, including a mistrial if the judge determines that further deliberation is not likely to result in a unanimous decision. Understanding this term is crucial for comprehension of jury dynamics and the legal processes that follow when consensus cannot be achieved.

When a jury is described as deadlocked, it signifies that the jury is unable to reach a unanimous verdict on the case. This situation often occurs when jurors have differing opinions on the case's outcome and cannot come to an agreement even after extensive deliberation. Consequently, a deadlocked jury can lead to various legal outcomes, including a mistrial if the judge determines that further deliberation is not likely to result in a unanimous decision. Understanding this term is crucial for comprehension of jury dynamics and the legal processes that follow when consensus cannot be achieved.