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General Verdict
A general verdict is a simple decision by the jury that says who wins the case without breaking down the reasons for each issue.
What it actually is
In a court trial, the jury returns a general verdict by stating only that the defendant is either liable or not liable (in civil cases) or guilty or not guilty (in criminal cases), without specifying how they resolved each disputed fact or legal question. It appears after the jury has deliberated and is the most common type of verdict, contrasting with a special verdict where the jury answers specific factual questions.
Why it matters in your case
If you are a party in a case, a general verdict gives you a clear outcome but makes it harder to appeal because the court cannot tell exactly what the jury decided on each issue. It also means the jury has broad discretion to weigh the evidence as a whole, which can simplify the trial but also reduce your ability to challenge the result on technical grounds.
The common misunderstanding
Many people think a general verdict means the jury must explain its reasoning, but it actually requires no explanation at all. Another common misunderstanding is that a general verdict is only used in criminal cases, but it is equally common in civil trials.
Get the actual rule
Definitions are orientation; rules are authority
This page explains the concept. When it matters to your case, read the rule that governs it in your court — we hold Texas, federal and Washington court rules word for word, and every state's official resources are on the state pages. If someone cites a case at you, check that it exists first.
Related
Terms that travel with this one
General explanation, not legal advice, and not specific to any state — procedures and deadlines vary by jurisdiction and court. If you can get a lawyer or free legal aid, do: every real option.