What is typically required for a petit jury's decision?

A petit jury, which is responsible for determining the outcome of a trial in a civil or criminal case, is usually required to reach a unanimous decision. This means that all jurors must agree on the verdict regarding the case before it can be finalized. The rationale behind requiring unanimity is to ensure that the decision reflects a collective agreement rather than a division among jurors, which aids in achieving a more just and considered outcome.

In criminal cases, this requirement is particularly important as it serves as a safeguard against wrongful convictions; all jurors must be convinced beyond a reasonable doubt of the defendant's guilt. In civil cases, while some jurisdictions permit a majority verdict, the traditional requirement leans toward unanimity to bolster confidence in the judgment made. This requirement helps maintain the integrity and reliability of the legal process, reflecting a strong consensus in what can often be a significant life-altering decision for those involved.