California
Appeals

Standard of Review-jury’s verdict substantial evidence-McRae v. Dept. of Corrections A098073A

Analysis

            Actions for unlawful discrimination and retaliation are inherently fact-driven, and we recognize that it is the jury, and not the appellate court, that is charged with the obligation of determining the facts.  Nonetheless, the jury’s verdict stands only if it is supported by substantial evidence.  “In determining whether a judgment is supported by substantial evidence, we may not confine our consideration to isolated bits of evidence, but must view the whole record in a light most favorable to the judgment, resolving all evidentiary conflicts and drawing all reasonable inferences in favor of the decision of the trial court.  [Citation.]  We may not substitute our view of the correct findings for those of the trial court [or jury]; rather, we must accept any reasonable interpretation of the evidence which supports the [factfinder’s] decision.  However, we may not defer to that decision entirely.  ‘[I]f the word “substantial” means anything at all, it clearly implies that such evidence must be of ponderable legal significance.  Obviously the word cannot be deemed synonymous with “any” evidence.  It must be reasonable in nature, credible, and of solid value; it must actually be “substantial” proof of the essentials which the law requires in a particular case.’  [Citations.]

McRae v. Dept. of CorrectionsA098073 8/29/06 CA1/1A