Defective verdict - sustany/dvg GitHub Wiki

A defective verdict is a�verdict�flawed to such�extent that a�judgment�cannot be based on it. There are several instances that might occur to render a verdict defective. For example, a verdict may be defective because of procedural irregularities during deliberations. Additionally, there could be�contradictions�in its substantive conclusions.� As a result, the judge might call for more deliberations, or declare a�mistrial�if the problems cannot be resolved. For example,�in Sullivan v. Louisiana (1993)�the jury was given �a constitutionally defective� reasonable doubt instruction.�

Additional Case Illustrations:

See e.g., People v. Jolly, 282 A.D.2d 474, 722 N.Y.S.2d 583 (2001); Lau v. Goord, 540 F. Supp. 2d 399 (2008)