Rule 290.Definition and Substance

Last amended April 1, 1984 · Last verified June 28, 2026

In one sentenceRule 290 defines a verdict as the jury's written decision on the issues submitted and distinguishes a general verdict, which pronounces for a party, from a special verdict, which finds only the facts.

Full Text of Rule 290

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A verdict is a written declaration by a jury of its decision, comprehending the whole or all the issues submitted to the jury, and shall be either a general or special verdict, as directed, which shall be signed by the presiding juror of the jury. A general verdict is one whereby the jury pronounces generally in favor of one or more parties to the suit upon all or any of the issues submitted to it. A special verdict is one wherein the jury finds the facts only on issues made up and submitted to them under the direction of the court. A special verdict shall, as between the parties, be conclusive as to the facts found.

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Plain-English Summary

Rule 290 defines the jury's verdict. A verdict is a written declaration by the jury of its decision on the issues submitted, signed by the presiding juror, and it is either general or special. A general verdict pronounces generally in favor of one or more parties on the issues; a special verdict finds only the facts on the issues submitted, leaving the court to apply the law. A special verdict is conclusive between the parties as to the facts found.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a general and special verdict in Texas?

Under Rule 290, a general verdict pronounces generally for a party, while a special verdict answers specific fact questions and leaves the court to apply the law. Modern Texas trials use the special, question-based verdict.

Who signs a jury verdict in a Texas civil case?

Rule 290 requires the presiding juror to sign the verdict, whether the jury returns a general verdict or a special one.

Is a special verdict binding on the parties in Texas?

Yes. Rule 290 makes a special verdict conclusive between the parties as to the facts the jury found, though the court still applies the law to those facts when it renders judgment.

Source & verification. Rule text and the official Notes and Comments are reproduced verbatim from the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure (Tex. R. Civ. P. 290), published by the Texas Judicial Branch (txcourts.gov). Promulgated by the Supreme Court of Texas. The plain-English summary is original and draws on official sources. Last verified June 28, 2026. · Official source

Also known as: verdict definitiongeneral verdictspecial verdictpresiding juror signatureconclusive as to facts foundTRCP 290