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 Wisconsin, 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, liability, and, in some cases, the amount of damages. The jury's answers to these questions are compiled into a document known as the jury verdict. The verdict reflects the jury's findings and decisions on the issues presented to them. After the jury reaches a verdict, the judge enters a judgment based on that verdict. The judgment is the official decision of the court and typically specifies the relief granted, such as the amount of money one party owes to another. The judgment is enforceable by law and can be appealed if either party believes there has been a legal error during the trial.