What is the Difference Between Judgement and Verdict?

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The main difference between a judgment and a verdict lies in who makes the decision and the nature of the decision.

  • Judgment: A judgment is a decision made by a judge or the court of law. It includes both questions of facts and questions of law. A judgment can be appealed or enforced.
  • Verdict: A verdict is a decision made by a jury. It is a statement by the jury in favor of the plaintiff or the defendant in a case. A verdict cannot be appealed or enforced as such.

In summary, the key differences between a judgment and a verdict are:

  1. A judgment is made by a judge or court, while a verdict is made by a jury.
  2. A judgment includes both questions of facts and questions of law, while a verdict is a statement in favor of one party or the other.
  3. A judgment can be appealed or enforced, but a verdict cannot.

Comparative Table: Judgement vs Verdict

Here is a table summarizing the differences between a judgment and a verdict:

Feature Judgment Verdict
Definition A judgment is a court decision made by a judge or the court of law, including both questions of facts and questions of law. A verdict is a decision made by jury members, typically in a criminal case, finding the defendant either "guilty" or "not guilty" or liable/not liable in civil cases.
Who Decides? Judges or the court of law Jury members
Effect A judgment includes both questions of facts and questions of law, and often includes a verdict. A verdict alone is not the final statement made by the court. A verdict is a decision that determines the guilt or innocence of the accused in criminal cases or liability in civil cases.
Civil or Criminal Both civil and criminal cases Primarily criminal cases, but can also be used in civil cases

In summary, a judgment is a decision made by a judge or the court of law, while a verdict is a decision made by jury members. A judgment includes both questions of facts and questions of law, whereas a verdict determines the guilt or innocence of the accused in criminal cases or liability in civil cases.