Jury

Definition

A jury is a group composed of the peers of the parties involved in a legal case or a representative cross-section of the community. This group is summoned and sworn in by the court to deliberate and decide on the facts presented during a trial. The jury’s main role is to render a verdict of either guilt or innocence in criminal cases or liability in civil cases, based on the evidence and testimony presented during the trial.

Examples

Criminal Trial: In a criminal trial, a jury of twelve people is typically convened to decide whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty of the charges brought against them.
Civil Trial: In a civil trial, a smaller jury (commonly six to twelve members) may determine liability and, sometimes, the amount of damages that should be awarded to the plaintiff.
Grand Jury: A grand jury does not decide guilt or innocence but determines whether there is sufficient evidence to charge someone with a crime. Grand juries are generally larger, often comprising 16-23 people.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How is a jury selected? A1: Jury selection, also known as voir dire, involves questioning prospective jurors by the attorneys and the judge to ensure impartiality. People deemed to have biases or conflicts of interest often get excused.

Q2: Can anyone be called for jury duty? A2: Generally, citizens who are 18 years or older, resident in the jurisdiction, and who have no disqualifying legal impediments can be called for jury duty.

Q3: What are the responsibilities of a juror? A3: Jurors must listen to the evidence presented, follow the judge’s instructions on the law, deliberate with fellow jurors, and make impartial decisions based on the facts before them.

Q4: How long does jury service typically last? A4: The length of jury service varies depending on the jurisdiction and the particular case. It could last from a single day to several weeks or even months for complex cases.

Verdict: The formal decision or finding made by a jury.
Voir Dire: The jury selection process where potential jurors are questioned to determine suitability.
Deliberation: The process by which a jury discusses the evidence and testimony to reach a verdict.
Impartiality: The principle that jurors should have no bias or preconceived notions regarding the case or the parties involved.
Grand Jury: A type of jury responsible for determining whether sufficient evidence exists to indict a suspect in a criminal case.

Online References

Suggested Books for Further Studies

“Jury: The People’s Government” by George E. Fraenkel, featuring comprehensive insights into the jury system.
“We, the Jury: The Jury System and the Ideal of Democracy” by Jeffrey Abramson, discussing the role of juries in the democratic process.
“The Jury System” by Randolph N. Jonakait, covering the history, function, and contemporary issues related to juries.

Fundamentals of Juries: Legal System Basics Quiz

### What is the primary role of a jury in a trial? - [x] To decide on the facts in issue - [ ] To interpret the law - [ ] To mediate between the parties - [ ] To give legal advice > **Explanation:** The main role of a jury is to decide on the facts in issue at a trial based on the evidence presented. They do not interpret the law, which is the job of the judge. ### How many people typically serve on a criminal jury? - [ ] 6 - [x] 12 - [ ] 23 - [ ] 15 > **Explanation:** In a criminal trial, it's common to have a jury of twelve members who deliberate together to reach a verdict. ### What is the purpose of voir dire? - [x] To select an impartial jury - [ ] To give opening statements - [ ] To present evidence - [ ] To pass final judgment > **Explanation:** Voir dire is the process of selecting an impartial jury by questioning potential jurors to ensure they can fairly consider the case. ### Can jurors discuss the case before the trial ends? - [ ] Yes - [x] No - [ ] Only with the judge - [ ] Only with the lawyers > **Explanation:** Jurors are prohibited from discussing the case before deliberations to ensure impartiality and prevent outside influence on their judgment. ### What is a grand jury responsible for? - [ ] Deciding guilt or innocence - [ ] Determining legal penalties - [x] Determining whether there's sufficient evidence to charge someone - [ ] Reviewing trial procedures > **Explanation:** A grand jury’s purpose is to determine whether there is enough evidence to indict a suspect and pursue criminal charges. ### Who provides instructions on the law to the jury? - [ ] The jurors themselves - [ ] The defense attorney - [x] The judge - [ ] The prosecution > **Explanation:** The judge is responsible for providing instructions to the jury on the applicable law relevant to the case they are deliberating. ### Are jurors allowed to conduct their own investigations into a case? - [ ] Yes, if they get permission - [ ] Yes, on weekends - [x] No, never - [ ] Yes, if it’s a high-profile case > **Explanation:** Jurors are not allowed to conduct their own investigation as this could introduce bias and unvetted information into their decision-making process. ### What does it mean for a jury to deliberate? - [ ] To listen to opening arguments - [ ] To give the verdict instantly - [x] To discuss the evidence and come to a decision - [ ] To meet in the courtroom > **Explanation:** Deliberation is the process wherein jurors discuss the evidence and testimony presented during the trial to reach a verdict. ### Which amendment to the U.S. Constitution ensures the right to a trial by jury in criminal cases? - [ ] First Amendment - [ ] Fourth Amendment - [x] Sixth Amendment - [ ] Eighth Amendment > **Explanation:** The Sixth Amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees the right to a speedy and public trial by an impartial jury in all criminal prosecutions. ### What is the outcome called when a jury cannot agree on a verdict? - [ ] Acquittal - [ ] Dismissal - [x] Hung Jury - [ ] Retrial > **Explanation:** A "hung jury" occurs when the jurors cannot come to a unanimous decision, often leading to a mistrial and potentially a retrial.

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