ABSTRACT
The Practice Direction (above) also sets out a procedure for the taking of a majority verdict when the jury return. If they return before the two or three hours as set by statute, and the verdict is not unanimous, they should be sent out again with a further direction to arrive at a verdict on which they all agree. When the jury return after the expiration of the statutory time set for mandatory deliberation, they must first be asked if they have arrived at a verdict on which they are all agreed. They must be directed to answer yes or no. If yes, they are then asked what is the verdict and it is delivered.
