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Verdict

When the jury has reached its verdict, they return to the courtroom and the foreperson gives the verdict, which must be unanimous (all twelve of the same opinion). A majority verdict (where 10 or more agree unless the jury is only 10, then 9 is the majority) is accepted after four hours. There is an exception where the defendant is on trial for murder or treason, in which cases must be unanimous [s 57 Juries Act 1927 (SA)].

If the jury reach a point where they cannot agree upon a verdict and they say that more time will not help, the jury may be discharged and a new trial may be held. This is called a hung jury.

If the accused is found not guilty, she or he is discharged and free to go.

If the accused is found guilty the Judge must consider what penalty to impose, see The sentencing process. The case may be adjourned to another date for the judge to consider what penalty should be given. If the offence is a serious crime, an accused who may have been on bail up to the jury verdict, may have their bail revoked and be remanded in custody to await sentence.

Verdict  :  Last Revised: Fri Jan 8th 2016
The content of the Law Handbook is made available as a public service for information purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for legal advice. See Disclaimer for details. For free and confidential legal advice in South Australia call 1300 366 424.