Jurors perform a vital role in the American system of justice. The protection of our rights and liberties is largely achieved through the teamwork of Judge and jury who, working together in a common effort, put into practice the principles of our great heritage of
Jurors perform a vital role in the American system of justice. The protection of our rights and liberties is largely achieved through the teamwork of Judge and jury who, working together in a common effort, put into practice the principles of our great heritage of freedom. The Judge determines the law to be applied in the case while the jury decides the facts. Thus, in a very important way, jurors become a part of the Court itself.
Any inconvenience and financial sacrifice that might be made to render public service as a juror are greatly appreciated by the Judge, the lawyers and your fellow citizens. It is a strong act of citizenship akin to paying taxes, serving in the military and voting.
The reward for a juror’s services lies in the awareness that he or she has performed a high duty of citizenship, and in the realization that he or she has aided in the maintenance of law, order, and in the administration of justice among his or her fellow citizens.
Efficient jurors are men and women of sound judgment, absolute honesty, and a complete sense of fairness. The juror aids in the maintenance of law and order and upholds justice among the citizenry. His or her greatest reward is the knowledge that he or she has discharged the duty faithfully, honorably, and well. In addition to determining and adjusting property rights, jurors may also be asked to decide questions involving a crime for which a person may be confined in prison. In a very real sense, therefore, the people must rely upon jurors for the protection of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Any juror should realize a quiet importance and pride from his or her service. He or she should decide the facts and apply the law impartially, treat alike the rich and the poor, men and women, corporations and individuals. He or she should render justice without any regard to race, color, or creed.
The process of selecting jurors begins with a computer randomly selecting names from the Pennsylvania drivers list of all persons 18 years of age or older.
The following stages of a trial usually occur in jury cases:
- Selection of a jury and juror’s oath
- The opening statements of the lawyers. Sometimes the opening statements are omitted.
- The plaintiff or the Commonwealth calls witnesses and produces evide