What action did the trial court take after the jury returned a $22 million verdict in favor of the plaintiff?

The correct answer reflects an important procedural aspect of how trial courts can engage with jury verdicts. When a jury returns a substantial verdict, such as $22 million, the trial court may determine that additional deliberation is necessary to ensure the accuracy and fairness of the decision. This could arise from concerns about how the jury arrived at their verdict or questions regarding the evidence presented during the trial.

In practice, allowing a jury to deliberate further can demonstrate the court's commitment to a thorough judicial process. It provides an opportunity for jurors to consider the evidence and discussions in greater depth, which may help clarify their positions or reconsider aspects of the case in light of the court's guidance. This option reflects the responsibility of the trial court to ensure that the verdict aligns with legal standards and the evidence presented.

The other options, while they may seem plausible, do not reflect the typical procedural steps taken after a jury's verdict. A review of the jury's decision or dismissal of the lawsuit is not usually performed immediately following a verdict, nor is outright rejection of the jury's conclusion standard practice without further examination or justification. This question emphasizes the critical role of jury deliberations and the trial court's function in overseeing that process.