The jury’s answers to the questions it receives from the court (judge) in the jury charge determines the outcome of the lawsuit (the jury verdict), and is ultimately reflected in the court’s judgment (the statement of the relief granted in the lawsuit—generally who owes who money).
In North Carolina, as in other states, the jury plays a crucial role in the legal process during a trial. The judge provides the jury with a set of instructions, known as the jury charge, which outlines the legal standards and definitions relevant to the case. The jury then deliberates and answers specific questions based on the evidence presented during the trial. These questions often relate to the determination of facts, liability, and, in civil cases, the amount of damages. The jury's answers to these questions form the basis of the jury verdict. Once the jury reaches a verdict, the judge enters a judgment based on this verdict, which is a formal decision by the court that indicates the outcome of the lawsuit, including any award of damages or other relief granted. In North Carolina, the judgment is subject to the rules of civil procedure and can be appealed to a higher court if either party believes there has been a legal error in the trial process.