What would be of importance to you serving as a juror?

Importance of Jury Service The judge determines the law to be applied in the case while the jury decides the facts. Jurors aid in the maintenance of law and order and uphold justice among their fellow citizens. Their greatest reward is the knowledge that they have discharged this duty faithfully, honorably, and well.

How are defendants found guilty or innocent at the trials?

Everyone accused of a crime is legally presumed to be innocent until they are convicted, either by being proved guilty at a trial or by pleading guilty before trial. This means that it is the prosecutor who has to convince the jury that the defendant is guilty and must provide proof of guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

How do you persuade a jury?

Your greatest persuasion opportunity is to repeat their own statements back to them in the context of the defense story. You can also play to their professions and interests. The general goal is to assimilate verbiage and issues familiar to each juror into your themes/story, witness testimony, and trial graphics.

How does a jury decide a verdict?

The jury must reach its verdict by considering only the evidence introduced in court and the directions of the judge. The jury does not interpret the law. It follows the directions of the judge as regards legal matters. During all stages of the trial, jurors may take notes of proceedings.

What is it like serving on a jury?

Jurors typically spend long periods of time in the assembly room, which is often well-stocked with things like magazines and puzzles. Bring a good book or something else to keep yourself occupied during all the down time. At some point, you’ll get called into a courtroom with a group of other potential jurors.

Why is serving on a jury an important civic responsibility?

Jury service helps to support fairness in trials; jury service is able to give impartial viewpoints on cases that are presented in court. Jury service is a civic duty and an honored privilege bestowed upon ordinary citizens. We are accountable through our participation in jury service.

What Defendant means?

Definition of defendant (Entry 1 of 2) law. : a person or group against whom a criminal or civil action is brought : someone who is being sued or accused of committing a crime if the jury finds the defendant not guilty — compare plaintiff.

How does trial by jury work?

In California criminal cases, a jury trial is where 12 members of the community are assembled to hear the evidence and decide whether or not a defendant is guilty of the crime or crimes with which he or she is charged. The jurors must unanimously agree upon guilt before the defendant can be found guilty and convicted.

What does persuading a jury mean?

To persuade, lawyers must appeal to their audience. They must know whom they are trying to convince. In a jury trial, lawyers should establish juror profiles during jury selection to identify individuals likely to render a verdict in their client’s favor.