Every court system has access to a pool of potential jurors. When a trial date is set, several dozen potential jurors are selected and notified to appear at the courthouse at a certain day and time. The jurors are then asked if this will cause an undue hardship (cannot take time off work, cannot maintain reliable transportation, etc.) - any who qualify in the judge's opinion are excused at this time. The remaining potential jurors are then questioned by the prosecutors and the defense - each can veto up to a certain number of jurors. When 12 jurors are agreed upon by the judge, the prosecution and the defense, as well as one or two alternates in case the seated jury loses a member, the remaining potential jurors are released from duty.
Verdict
If the jury cannot decide whether the accused is guilty or not, the case can be repeated but with a different selection of jurors.
If the jury cannot decide whether the accused is guilty or not, the case can be repeated but with a different selection of jurors.
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.
The defense tries to create doubt in the minds of the jury.
The defense tries to create doubt in the minds of the jury.
The defense tries to create doubt in the minds of the jury.
To answer jury selection questions effectively, be honest, concise, and respectful. Listen carefully to the questions and take your time to provide thoughtful responses. Avoid giving long-winded answers or sharing irrelevant information. It's important to be yourself and to communicate clearly during the selection process.
It is called a PEREMPTORY CHALLENGE and is exercised during the Voir Dire portion of jury selection.
Nancy S. Marder has written: 'The jury process' -- subject(s): Jury, Jury selection
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