Episode Details

Jury Selection and the Role of the Jury: Composition and Function of Juries

Role in Trial Proceedings

Weighing Evidence:

Fact-Finding Body: Jurors are the triers of fact, responsible for evaluating the evidence presented by both sides. They must determine the facts of the case based on witness testimony, physical evidence, and other presented materials.

Standards of Proof: In criminal cases, the prosecution must prove the defendant's guilt "beyond a reasonable doubt," while in civil cases, the standard is typically "preponderance of the evidence."

Evaluating Credibility:

Witness Testimony: Jurors must assess the credibility of witnesses, considering factors such as consistency, demeanor, and possible motives for bias or falsehood.

Expert Witnesses: Jurors may also evaluate expert testimony, weighing the qualifications of the expert and the validity of their opinions.

Rendering a Verdict:

Deliberation: After hearing all the evidence and receiving instructions from the judge, the jury retires to deliberate. Deliberations are private, and jurors discuss the case to reach a consensus.

Unanimous vs. Majority Verdicts: In criminal cases, verdicts must generally be unanimous. In civil cases, some jurisdictions allow for non-unanimous verdicts, such as a 10-2 decision.

Verdict Forms: Juries typically complete a verdict form, indicating their findings on each issue presented in the trial. In criminal cases, this means finding the defendant guilty or not guilty. In civil cases, it involves determining liability and, if applicable, awarding damages.

Role of the Judge:

Instructions: The judge provides the jury with instructions on the relevant laws and legal standards that must guide their deliberations. Jurors must apply these instructions to the facts they have found.

Supervision: While the judge oversees the trial and ensures the proper conduct of legal procedures, the ultimate decision-making power on factual matters rests with the jury.