§ Rule 1.931. Rendering verdict and answering interrogatories

Codes > Iowa Rules of Civil Practice and Procedure > Chapter 1 > Division IX : A. Trials > Rule 1.931.

Rule 1.931. Rendering verdict and answering interrogatories

1.931(1) Number.Before a general verdict, special verdicts, or answers to interrogatories are returned, the parties may stipulate that the finding may be rendered by a stated majority of the jurors. In the absence of such stipulation, a general verdict, special verdicts, or answers to interrogatories must be rendered unanimously. However, a general verdict, special verdict, or answers to interrogatories may be rendered by all jurors excepting one of the jurors if the jurors have deliberated for a period of not less than six hours after the issues to be decided have been submitted to them.

1.931(2) Return; poll.The jury agreeing on a general verdict, special verdicts, or answers to interrogatories shall bring the finding into court where it shall be read to the jury and inquiry made if it is the jury's finding. A party may then require a poll, whereupon the court or clerk shall ask each juror if it is the juror's finding. If the required number of jurors does not express agreement, the jury shall be sent out for further deliberation; otherwise, the finding is complete and, unless otherwise provided by law, the jury shall be discharged.

1.931(3) Sealed.When, by consent of the parties and the court, the jury has been permitted to seal its finding and separates before it is rendered, such sealing is equivalent to a rendition and a recording thereof in open court, and such jury shall not be polled or permitted to disagree with respect thereto.