A quotient verdict is an award of money damages calculated by a jury in a lawsuit. Each juror will state in writing the amount they deem appropriate. The average is used to reach a figure for the award. A quotient verdict is generally considered improper since it is based on speculation rather than a reasonable consideration of the facts; particularly, if a jury agrees in advance to calculate the award using a quotient verdict. On a motion for a new trial, such a ruling may be overturned, and the court will proclaim a mistrial.
[Last updated in April of 2022 by the Wex Definitions Team]