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 Oregon, as in other states, the jury plays a critical 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, the application of law to those facts, and the assessment of damages or other relief. The jury's answers to these questions are compiled into a verdict, which is the jury's formal decision on the case. Once the jury reaches a verdict, the judge enters a judgment based on that verdict, which is the official decision of the court. This judgment typically specifies the relief granted, such as the amount of money one party owes to another, or any other form of remedy ordered by the court. The judgment is enforceable by law and can be appealed to a higher court if either party believes there has been a legal error in the trial process.