How do special interrogatories help a jury decide specific factual issues?

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Special interrogatories serve as a mechanism to guide a jury beyond the standard general verdict, which typically requires only a simple "yes" or "no" regarding liability or guilt without explanation.1

By employing special interrogatories, the court asks jurors to resolve a series of specific factual issues that are relevant to the final outcome of the case. This process helps the jury focus on the essential components of the evidence, ensuring that their ultimate decision is built upon findings related to these underlying facts rather than just a broad conclusion. This structured approach provides greater clarity and oversight regarding how the jury reached its verdict.1