Juries in Criminal Cases
Trial by jury is the American way, particularly when it comes to criminal cases. The ways in which juries are selected and make decisions aren't simply fascinating—they're crucial to fair trials. If judges, lawyers, or juries don't follow procedure, convictions may be invalid.
The right to trial by jury in criminal cases is guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, as well as the laws of every state. How the jury is selected involves several stages.
During jury selection in a criminal trial, the prosecution and defense have the opportunity to remove potential jurors whom they don’t want on the jury.
Jurors are supposed to follow the law, but sometimes don't. Learn why they don't, and what the result is.
Jury tampering is a crime that occurs when people improperly influence jurors. Jurors can also be improperly influenced—sometimes by their own doing—without anyone committing a crime.
Judges can generally encourage—but not force—criminal juries to render judgment.
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