Barnes v. Appeals

At the close of the automobile accident negligence trial below, wherein the defendant had pleaded the defense of contributory negligence, the jury handed back a verdict form finding “for the Plaintiff in the sum of $ None.”At that point the judge called the attorneys to the side bar for a discussion and then addressed the jury as follows:

“The Court: You have returned somewhat of an unusual verdict, and I am going to ask Mr. Smith [Jury Foreman] some questions.

“The verdict forms that were returned it appears to be in favor of the plaintiff signed by all eight, but which carries no award…