What is the difference between a verdict and a judgment?

• A. A verdict is the jury's decision; a judgment is the court's ruling enforcing that decision.
• B. A verdict is the court's ruling; a judgment is the jury's decision.
• C. They are the same thing.
• D. A verdict applies only to civil cases; a judgment to criminal.

Answer: (A)

A verdict is the jury’s decision on the facts—what they determine about liability or guilt after hearing the evidence. A judgment is the court’s formal, enforceable ruling that implements that decision. After a jury returns a verdict, the judge enters a judgment that states the outcome and orders any damages, penalties, or other relief, making the decision official and enforceable. In a criminal case, the verdict might be guilty or not guilty, and the judgment then imposes the sentence. In a civil case, the verdict finds liability and often damages, and the judgment enforces those findings with money or other relief. If there’s a bench trial with no jury, the judge’s findings take the place of a verdict, and the judgment finalizes that decision.