Seventh Amendment

Quick Definition: Seventh Amendment

“In Suits at common law, where the value in controversy shall exceed twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury shall be preserved, and no fact tried by a jury, shall be otherwise re-examined in any Court of the United States, than according to the rules of the common law.”

Key points

• Applies to federal civil cases, preserving the right to a jury trial in common law suits involving more than $20.
• Prevents courts from overturning a jury’s factual findings except under common law standards.
• Not incorporated to the states — most state civil trials are governed by state constitutions and rules.

FAQ

• Does this apply to criminal trials? No, it applies only to civil lawsuits in federal courts.
• Can a judge override a jury’s decision? Only under strict legal standards, such as legal error or insufficient evidence.
• Is the $20 threshold still enforced? Yes technically, but it’s outdated and rarely relevant in modern practice.