What is the process of jury selection?

Lawyers and judges select juries by a process known as “voir dire,” which is Latin for “to speak the truth.” In voir dire, the judge and attorneys for both sides ask potential jurors questions to determine if they are competent and suitable to serve in the case.

Why do cases go to trial?

Going to trial also has several advantages. For example, going to trial buys the criminal defendant more time to prepare his or her defense and spend time with family before potentially going to jail. Going to trial and receiving an acquittal is the only way for an innocent person to have justice.

Can jury members talk?

After discharge, you may discuss the verdict and the deliberations with anyone, including the media, the lawyers, or your family. But, don’t feel obligated to do so, as no juror can be forced to talk without a court order.

What is the final stage of a trial?

jury deliberations
Stage Ten – Deliberations and Verdict The final stage in a federal criminal trial will be jury deliberations and verdict.

What questions are asked during jury selection?

During the voir dire jurors are asked questions about their lives to determine if they are fit to serve as unbiased participants on the jury given the parameters of a particular trial. A juror’s stance on the death penalty can play an important role in jury selection for capital offenses.

What do attorneys do during jury selection?

Jury Selection. At trial, one of the first things a prosecutor and defense attorney must do is the selection of jurors for the case. Jurors are selected to listen to the facts of the case and to determine if the defendant committed the crime.

What are the steps in the jury selection process?

The jury selection has two fundamental steps; the first being a random selection of the community pool and the second step accounts for a screening process to ensure the delivery of an unbiased juror pool. The actual selection process is broad, for every citizen who meets the age requirements is required to serve on a jury at some point.

How long does it take to pick a jury?

While the misdemeanor cases take a day or two to pick a jury of two, serious felony trials usually take about 5 – 8 work days to pick a jury of 8 (with alternates) or 14-16 (in some cases).