Regarding Information:
As a juror, you're encouraged to use your own life experience and good judgment. However, you must not seek out any additional information about the case on your own. This means:
- Do not visit the scene of any event discussed in the case unless the Court organizes and supervises that visit.
- Do not do your own research, such as looking things up online or consulting outside sources.
- Base your verdict only on the evidence and testimony presented in the courtroom during the trial.
Following these rules helps ensure the trial is fair and that your decision is based only on information both sides have had a chance to address.
Regarding Interacting with others on the case:
As a juror, do not speak with attorneys, parties, reporters, or witnesses during the trial. Even casual remarks—like small talk about the weather—can be misinterpreted by others and may give the appearance of bias. To avoid misunderstandings, it's best not to say anything to trial participants.
Regarding Information about the case:
- Do not talk about the case with other jurors until all the evidence has been presented and deliberations officially begin. Talking too early may unfairly influence others or lead you to a decision before hearing everything.
- Do not discuss the case with friends, family, or anyone outside the courtroom. Your verdict must be based only on the evidence and testimony presented in court—not on anyone else's opinions or outside information.
- If someone tries to talk to you about the case, simply say: “I’m not allowed to talk about it.”
If the person continues or tries to influence your opinion, report it to the judge immediately.
- Avoid media coverage of the trial, including newspapers, websites, radio, and television. These sources may be incomplete, inaccurate, or biased, and they are not part of the official evidence.
Once you are officially released from jury duty, you may choose to talk about your experience with attorneys, investigators, or others. However, you are not required to do so. Whether or not to speak is entirely up to you.
Regarding the Jury Room
When you go to the jury room to begin deliberations at the end of the case, your first responsibility is to choose a foreperson. This person will serve as the chairperson of your group.
The foreperson’s role includes:
- Making sure the discussion is orderly and respectful.
- Ensuring every juror has a chance to speak and share their thoughts.
- Guiding the conversation so it stays focused on the evidence and issues.
- Helping the jury work together efficiently and fairly.
A good foreperson helps the jury reach a decision by encouraging cooperation, staying organized, and keeping things on track.
Each juror also has important responsibilities to ensure a fair and thoughtful deliberation:
- Listen actively and respectfully to others’ viewpoints, even if you disagree.
- Speak honestly and clearly about your interpretation of the evidence and the law as explained by the judge.
- Stay open-minded and willing to reconsider your opinion if persuaded by reason and evidence.
- Avoid letting personal bias or outside influences affect your judgment—base your decision only on the facts presented in court.
- Take the process seriously and give it your full attention. Deliberations are a critical part of the justice system.
- Do not rush the decision. Every juror’s input matters, and a verdict should only be reached when all members have had a full opportunity to contribute.
- Work collaboratively with your fellow jurors to reach a fair and unanimous verdict, if one is required.
By fulfilling these responsibilities, every juror plays a key role in upholding justice and ensuring the legal process is fair for all parties involved.
