When a personal injury case goes to trial in Iowa, a critical component of the proceedings is the role of the jury. The jury is responsible for determining whether the plaintiff has proved their case against the defendant and, if so, awarding damages to the plaintiff. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the role of the jury in an Iowa personal injury case and what factors go into making a decision.
Table of Contents
The Jury’s Job
The jury’s job in an Iowa personal injury case is to determine whether the plaintiff has established the defendant’s negligence or wrongdoing caused their injuries. If the jury decides that the defendant is liable, they will then decide on the amount of compensation the plaintiff should receive for their damages.
Jury Selection
Before the trial begins, both the plaintiff and the defendant’s legal teams will participate in selecting the jury. Each side can dismiss potential jurors for specific reasons, such as if they have a relationship with someone involved in the case or if they have a bias that would impact their ability to be impartial. Once the jury is selected, they will be sworn in and be expected to follow the court’s instructions throughout the trial.
Determining Fault
To win a personal injury case in Iowa, the plaintiff must prove that the defendant was negligent and that their negligence caused the plaintiff’s injuries. The jury will be presented with evidence from both sides and will be asked to determine whether the defendant was negligent and, if so, whether that negligence caused the plaintiff’s injuries.
Assessing Damages
If the jury decides that the defendant is liable, they will then move on to determining the amount of compensation the plaintiff should receive. To do this, the jury will consider a variety of factors, such as the plaintiff’s medical bills, lost wages, and the pain and suffering they endured as a result of the injury. The jury may also consider the extent of the plaintiff’s injuries and how those injuries may impact their future quality of life.
Jury Deliberation
Once both sides have presented their case, the jury will be sequestered to deliberate on their decision. They will need to come to a unanimous decision on both liability and damages. The length of time the jury spends deliberating can vary greatly from case to case.
Verdict
Once the jury reaches a decision, they will inform the court and read their verdict. The court will then enter a judgment against the defendant if they are found liable. The plaintiff will receive the compensation determined by the jury, which may include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Conclusion
The role of the jury in an Iowa personal injury case is crucial, as they are tasked with determining whether the plaintiff has proven their case and, if so, awarding damages. It’s important to have a skilled personal injury lawyer who can help you navigate the complexities of a lawsuit while ensuring that the jury understands the extent of your damages. By following proper procedures and presenting a compelling case, you increase your chances of success in an Iowa personal injury trial.