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What is the name of the process that the attorneys use to select a jury?
jury selection
What do attorney do during jury selection?
Attorneys will ask prospective jurors various questions to determine if they will be a good fit for the jury. Prospective jurors can be dismissed if the attorney feels they are biased.
When did scientific jury selection begin?
Scientific jury selection began in the 1970s, particularly gaining prominence after the publication of the book "Jury Selection: Strategy and Tactics" by psychologist Dr. R. J. M. MacCoun. This approach employs social science research and statistical methods to analyze potential jurors' demographics and psychological profiles, aiming to predict their behavior and attitudes during trials. The use of focus groups and mock trials also became common during this period, marking a significant shift in how attorneys approached jury selection.
What does voir dere mean?
"Voir dire" is a legal term referring to the process of jury selection in which potential jurors are questioned by the judge and attorneys to determine their suitability for serving on a jury. The term is derived from French, meaning "to speak the truth." During voir dire, attorneys assess jurors' backgrounds, biases, and opinions to ensure an impartial jury for the trial. This process is crucial for upholding the integrity of the judicial system.
What is a veniremen?
A venireman is a member of a jury pool, specifically summoned for potential jury duty in a legal case. During the jury selection process, veniremen are questioned by attorneys and the judge to determine their suitability to serve on a particular trial. The term is often used interchangeably with "juror" or "jury candidate." Veniremen play a crucial role in ensuring a fair and impartial jury.
What is a jury questionnaire?
A jury questionnaire is a form used during the jury selection process to gather information from potential jurors. It typically includes questions about their background, beliefs, experiences, and any potential biases that may affect their ability to serve impartially in a trial. The information collected helps attorneys and judges assess the suitability of jurors for a specific case. This process aims to ensure a fair and balanced jury.
How does someone become a member of a jury?
To become a member of a jury, individuals are typically selected from a pool of eligible citizens, often through a random selection process from voter registration or other public records. Once selected, they receive a jury summons requiring them to appear in court. During the jury selection process, known as voir dire, both attorneys and the judge assess potential jurors for impartiality and suitability before final selections are made. If chosen, jurors are then sworn in and participate in the trial.
What events occurred after the arraignment and before the trial in the Scott Peterson case?
As with any case that will go through a jury trial, the time between the arraignment and trial is a busy time for the attorneys. There is analyzing evidence, interviewing wittneses, discovery, jury selection and a multitude of preliminary issues before the judge. This is also the time for any paid experts to be flown in if needed and all parts of the trial from beginning to end to be examined by both prosecution and defense so there are no surprises. Trial attorneys hate surprises. Most attorneys have already written their closing aurguments before jury selection.
Why are there only 6 members of the jury and all women at that in the zimmeran's trial when normally 12 members of both sexes compose a jury in criminal trials?
In the Zimmerman trial, the reduced jury size of six members, all women, was a result of specific legal and procedural decisions made during the selection process, including challenges and strikes by the attorneys involved. This case was a high-profile trial in Florida, where state law allows for smaller juries in certain circumstances. The composition of the jury reflected the random selection process from the available pool of potential jurors, which may have resulted in an all-female jury. Additionally, the unique nature of the case and its media attention may have influenced jury selection dynamics.
Can ex police officers serve on a jury?
Yes, ex-police officers can serve on a jury, but they may be subject to certain considerations during the selection process. Their previous law enforcement experience might lead to questions about potential biases or preconceived notions regarding the case at hand. Ultimately, whether an ex-police officer is selected for a jury depends on the specific circumstances of the case and the judgement of the attorneys and the judge during the voir dire process.
Can attorneys serve on jury duty?
Yes, attorneys can serve on jury duty in the United States, as long as they meet the eligibility requirements and are not disqualified based on specific circumstances of the case.
Can the prosecutor and defense hear the jury's discussion?
Generally, the jury's discussion is private, and no one but the jury is involved (or present). That being said, I'm aware of cases when the jury called for one (or both) of the attorneys to ask questions, but even then, the attorneys answered the questions and left the room.
