(4)6.8.2 Reaching a Verdict
(a) Unanimous vs. Special Verdicts.
- The court shall specify whether a unanimous verdict is required or if a special verdict, supermajority, or other procedure applies.
- In cases requiring unanimity, the court may provide additional instructions or polling procedures if the jury indicates difficulty in reaching agreement.
(b) Deadlock or Hung Jury.
- If the jury is unable to reach a required verdict within a reasonable time, the court may declare a mistrial.
- The court may provide additional instructions encouraging careful deliberation while respecting jurors’ independence.