When a jury is present in a civil case, what does the jury determine?

In a civil case, the jury is responsible for determining the facts of the case. This means they evaluate the evidence presented during the trial, listen to witness testimonies, and assess the credibility of each piece of information. Based on this evaluation, the jury reaches conclusions about what actually occurred in the case at hand.

The process of fact-finding is crucial in civil litigation, as the jury’s conclusions on the facts directly influence the application of the law to those facts and ultimately the outcome of the case. The jury does not create new laws, interpret statutes, or decide on customs; those responsibilities are typically reserved for the judge or the legal system. By focusing exclusively on the factual elements, the jury plays an essential role in the judicial process, ensuring that decisions are made based on a thorough examination of the evidence and testimonies.