Can jurors speak after a trial?

What if I cry during jury duty?

Crying alone may not be juror misconduct. But there are circumstances where a juror's emotions may result in an unfair trial.

What are two things jurors should never do?

Jurors should never discuss the case with anyone outside the jury (including family/friends) or conduct their own investigation, like visiting the scene or looking up info online, as the verdict must be based solely on courtroom evidence; these actions risk introducing bias and jeopardizing the trial's fairness. Another critical "never" is to decide by chance, such as by flipping coins, which makes a verdict illegal.
 

Do jurors talk during trial?

The Trial. Do not talk to others about the case. This responsibility requires that you not talk at all with the lawyers, witnesses, or anyone else connected with the case. The lawyers understand this rule.

Who is more powerful, a judge or a jury?

Moreover, judges' fact-finding decisions are typically framed as “norm enforcement” and assumed to be more rational and objective than those of jurors.

Is it okay to wear jeans as a juror?

You can often wear jeans to jury duty if they are dark, clean, and without holes, fitting into a "business casual" dress code, but it depends on the specific court; some federal or stricter courts prohibit them, so check your summons or the court's website for exact rules, and always avoid shorts, tank tops, flip-flops, or anything too distracting to show respect for the court. 

Has a judge ever overrule a jury verdict?

Yes, judges can and do overturn jury verdicts, though it's rare, usually when there's insufficient evidence for the verdict, the verdict is against the weight of the evidence (showing passion or prejudice), or due to significant legal errors during the trial, allowing for motions like Judgment Notwithstanding the Verdict (JNOV) or ordering a new trial, especially in criminal cases where a conviction might be overturned but not an acquittal. 

What questions do jurors get asked?

Juror Personal History Section of Questionnaire

• Have you, a family member, or close friend ever been in a serious traffic accident? ...
• Have you ever been a victim, witness, plaintiff or defendant in a criminal or civil suit? ...
• Have you ever been convicted of a misdemeanor other than traffic violations?

What if two jurors know each other?

In fact judges often err on the side of caution so if a juror even has an inkling they may know a witness they'll probably swap them out. But yes, if two jurors happen to know each other, I'd inform the court officials and they'll likely avoid having them in the same group of 15.

Is it okay to say yes sir to a judge?

Always make sure to address the judge as your honor. If the judge asks you questions, answer with respectful phrases like, yes sir, yes ma am, or yes, your honor.

Who is the most powerful person in a courtroom?

While the Judge holds significant authority within the courtroom by managing proceedings, ruling on evidence, and ensuring order, the Prosecutor is often considered the single most powerful figure in the U.S. criminal justice system because they decide whether to file charges, what charges to bring, and influence plea bargains, ultimately controlling the case's direction and potential outcomes more than the judge can.
 

What is the hardest question to ask a lawyer?

The hardest questions for a lawyer aren't about legal facts, but about deeply personal situations, like "How can I protect my children from abusive relatives if something happens to me?" or asking for a brutally honest "What is the likely worst-case outcome for my case, and what are my real chances of winning?", pushing beyond generic advice to uncover hidden challenges, their true battlefield experience, and if they're just sugarcoating the difficult realities of your specific legal problem.
 

Why is the jury banned in India?

The refusal of the government and the legal profession to confront class and caste differences in the courtroom, and not Blitz and the popular press, led to the abolition of the Indian jury. While the Nanavati story continues to fascinate millions of moviegoers, it also continues to mask a much more sordid past.

Is it better to be tried by a judge or jury?

Lawyer folk wisdom often points to choosing a jury if a case has emotional appeal, and choosing a judge if a case is complex and based on technical legal questions. Of course, you may end up with a jury trial even if you prefer a judge trial because your adversary may have an independent right to insist on having one.

Who has the most authority in a courtroom?

Courtroom Authority: The Judge's Realm. The courtroom is where judges have the most power. They control the trial, the evidence, and how things are done. Prosecutors lead at the start, but judges take over once the trial begins.

What not to say during jury duty?

At jury duty, avoid saying anything that shows bias, prejudges the case, disrespects the court, or reveals outside information; don't make sarcastic comments, overshare personal experiences, or claim you're too busy, but be honest about true hardships, as saying you'll be biased or have prior knowledge (like being a doctor in a medical case) can actually get you excused. 

What rights does every juror have?

As a juror, you have the right to vote your conscience, even if it means setting aside the law to conscientiously acquit someone who has technically broken the law. You cannot legally be punished for or required to change your verdict. In fact, there is no requirement for jurors to deliver a verdict.

Can jurors talk to lawyers?

During a trial, no one except a judge can discuss the case at bar with any juror. This prohibition extends up to the moment a verdict is returned by the jury. A lawyer must end any conversation initiated by a juror.

What is the hardest case to win in court?

The hardest cases to win in court often involve high emotional stakes, like crimes against children or sexual assault, where jurors struggle with bias; complex, voluminous evidence, such as white-collar fraud; and defenses that challenge societal norms, like an insanity plea, which faces high scrutiny and conflicting expert testimony. Cases with weak physical evidence, uncooperative witnesses (like in sex crimes), or those involving unpopular defendants (e.g., child abusers) are particularly challenging for defense attorneys.
 

What are the dangers of being a juror?

It is not unusual for jurors to report sleeplessness, intrusive thoughts, nightmares, or the feeling that images from the trial replay in their minds. In some cases, the fallout mirrors the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.

What color do judges like to see in court?

Judges generally prefer neutral, conservative colors like navy, gray, black, and white, as these convey seriousness, respect, and professionalism, avoiding distractions in a formal court setting; bright colors, bold patterns, and overly casual attire should be avoided to show you're taking the proceedings seriously. While some suggest lighter, muted tones (like light blue) might leave a favorable impression, the key is sobriety and fitting in, not standing out.