§ 38:382 — General verdict accompanied by answer to interrogatories; objection

A.(1) The court may submit to the jury, together with appropriate forms for a general verdict, written interrogatories upon one or more issues of fact, the decision of which is necessary to a verdict. The court shall give such explanation or instruction as may be necessary to enable the jury both to make answers to the interrogatories and to render a general verdict, and the court shall direct the jury both to make written answers and to render a general verdict.
(2) When the general verdict and the answers are harmonious, the court shall direct the entry of the appropriate judgment upon the verdict and answers.
(3) When the answers are consistent with each other but one or more is inconsistent with the general verdict the court may direct the entry of judgment in accordance with the answers, notwithstanding the general verdict, or may return the jury for further consideration of its answers and verdict, or may order a new trial.
(4) When the answers are inconsistent with each other and one or more is likewise inconsistent with the general verdict, the court shall not direct the entry of judgment but may return the jury for further consideration of its answers or may order a new trial.
B. At any time prior to argument, a party may file written requests that the court submit to the jury written interrogatories as set forth in this Section. The court shall inform counsel of its proposed action upon the requests prior to their arguments to the jury.
C. A party may not assign as error the submission or failure to submit a written interrogatory unless he objects thereto before the jury retires to consider its verdict, stating specifically the matter to which he objects and the grounds of his objection. Opportunity shall be given to make the objection out of the hearing of the jury.

Legislative History

Acts 1985, No. 785, §1, eff. July 22, 1985.