About this Video
- Video Title: Jury Service Overview
- Channel: United States Courts
- Speakers: Narrator
- Duration: 00:03:34
Introduction
This video provides an overview of jury service in the United States, explaining its importance, the selection process, the roles of different types of juries (grand and petit), juror conduct during trials, and the process of reaching a verdict. The video emphasizes jury service as a fundamental civic duty.
Key Takeaways
- The Sixth and Seventh Amendments: Guarantee the right to a jury trial in criminal and civil cases, respectively.
- Jury Selection: Individuals 18 and older who are US citizens may be summoned for jury duty. Jurors listen to testimony, review evidence, and render decisions.
- Grand Juries vs. Petit Juries: Grand juries determine if enough evidence exists to indict, while petit (trial) juries decide guilt or innocence in criminal trials or liability in civil trials.
- Voir Dire and Challenges: Potential jurors are questioned (Voir Dire) to ensure impartiality. Attorneys can dismiss jurors "for cause" or use peremptory challenges (limited number, no stated reason). However, jurors cannot be dismissed based on race or sex.
- Juror Conduct and Verdict: Jurors must avoid discussing the case or media coverage. The judge instructs the jury, and if a verdict cannot be reached (hung jury), a mistrial is declared.
