instruction

9th Circuit Weighs Potential New Trial for Semiconductor Firm Amid Controversial Jury Instruction Errors

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San Jose, California — A panel from the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals convened on Friday to deliberate on the possibility of a new trial in a significant trade secrets misappropriation case. This trial had resulted in a $40 million verdict against a semiconductor manufacturer, following claims of critical errors in jury instructions by the magistrate judge overseeing the case. During the hearing, two judges expressed concerns regarding the mistakes made during the trial process. The discussion highlighted a crucial dilemma: whether to proceed with an order for a new trial or to uphold … Read more

Pa. Appeals Court Orders New Medical Malpractice Trial Due to Inflammatory Opening Statements and Jury Instruction Flaws

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PITTSBURGH — A Pennsylvania appeals court has ruled that a new medical malpractice trial is warranted due to improper opening statements and jury instructions during the original trial. The decision stems from a case involving a patient who alleged that inadequate care led to significant health complications. The three-judge panel’s ruling emphasized that the initial trial proceedings were impacted by prejudicial remarks made by the defendant’s attorney. These statements, deemed misleading, could have swayed the jury’s perception. Legal experts suggest that such comments can severely undermine the fairness of a trial, especially in complex medical … Read more

Virginia Court Overturns Medical Malpractice Verdict Following Jury Missteps on ‘Habit Instruction’

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A Virginia appeals court has reversed a medical malpractice ruling that hinged on the jury’s use of a disputed “habit instruction.” The decision, issued recently, has significant implications for similar cases in the state. The case in question originated from a medical malpractice claim against a physician who allegedly failed to provide appropriate care. After a jury found in favor of the plaintiff, the trial court’s instructions to the jury were called into question. Specifically, one instruction suggested jurors could rely on the idea that a person generally acts in accordance with their established habits … Read more

Florida Appeals Court Overturns $8.1 Million Verdict Against R.J. Reynolds, Calls for New Trial Amid Jury Instruction Controversy

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Miami, Fla. — A recent decision by Florida’s Third District Court of Appeal has significant implications for a case against R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., reversing an $8.1 million jury award. The court determined that the initial trial contained errors that warrant a new examination of the evidence on strict liability and negligence. During the previous trial, instructions provided to the jury included findings against R.J. Reynolds that had already been dismissed during the summary judgment phase. This prompted the appellate court to take action, resulting in the case being sent back for a fresh trial. … Read more