When is a new trial considered appropriate in a civil trial?

A new trial is considered appropriate in a civil trial when a juror gives false testimony or conceals material facts. This situation directly impacts the integrity of the trial process and undermines the fairness of the verdict. If it is revealed that a juror has lied or hidden information that could influence the jury's decision, it indicates that the trial did not adhere to the standards of honesty and transparency required for a fair judicial process. Such misconduct can significantly affect the outcome of the trial, warranting a new trial to ensure that justice is accurately served.

The situation involving jurors is particularly critical, as juries are expected to base their decisions on the entirety of the evidence presented in court. If a juror's deception alters the consideration of that evidence, it can lead to a fundamentally flawed verdict. Consequently, courts recognize the need to remedy such situations through a new trial.

While there are other scenarios that can lead to a new trial, such as juries being deadlocked or newly discovered evidence, these situations often do not directly challenge the fundamental fairness and integrity of the trial in the same way that false testimony or juror misconduct does. This makes the issue of juror honesty a paramount concern for the courts.