Hawaii Competence — Unanimous Verdict is a legal term used in the state of Hawaii that refers to the requirement of a unanimous agreement among jurors in a criminal case in order to render a verdict of guilt or innocence. This legal principle ensures that a defendant's guilt must be established beyond a reasonable doubt by all jurors before a conviction can be made. In Hawaii, there are no different types or variations of Competence — Unanimous Verdict. The principle remains the same regardless of the type of criminal case being tried. Whether it is a misdemeanor or felony case, the jury must reach a unanimous decision in order to establish the defendant's guilt or innocence. The Competence — Unanimous Verdict requirement in Hawaii holds significant importance as it guarantees that every juror has carefully considered the evidence and reached a shared conclusion on the defendant's guilt. This principle is rooted in the idea that a person's liberty should not be taken away unless there is absolute certainty of their guilt. It further ensures that the defendant receives fair and equal treatment in the criminal justice system. When the jury in a criminal trial fails to reach a unanimous verdict, it results in a hung jury. In such cases, the prosecuting attorney may decide to retry the case with a different jury, or the defendant may benefit from a mistrial if it is declared by the judge. Mistrials occur when the jury is unable to agree on a verdict, and this allows for a fresh start in the legal process. The Competence — Unanimous Verdict principle in Hawaii aligns with the constitutional right to a fair trial and serves as a crucial safeguard against possible errors or biases in the criminal justice system. It ensures that no individual's freedom is compromised without a collective agreement from the jurors after considering all the evidence presented during the trial. Overall, Hawaii Competence — Unanimous Verdict is a foundational aspect of the criminal justice system in the state. It ensures that due process is followed, provides protection for defendants, and upholds the principles of fairness and justice in legal proceedings.