Jury Trials In Bucks County

We previously blogged about whether you are entitled to a trial by jury in Bucks County.  Now, let's discuss some issues relating to jurors. 

Jurors are picked by a Bucks County criminal defense lawyer and prosecutor through a process called voire dire.  They are selected after pretrial motions are litigated.   

Juror fill out initial questionnaires for the prosecutor and defense attorney to review prior to voire dire.  These questions help the attorney's review the jury pool for any obvious or overt prejudices or conflicts.  For example, if a defense attorney represented someone in the jury pool, there would be a conflict.  

What Do Juries Do?

Jurors are not permitted to consult with each other during the trial.  This is done to prevent any premature conclusions and to prevent cliques controlling the outcome of the case.  The jury is sworn under oath.  

At the conclusion of the trial, the jury is then "charged" by the Bucks County judge.  This means that the judge instructs the jurors about the law and what should be considered.  A verdict must be by a unanimous vote.  

A jury can deliberate for a period of time that is within the sound discretion of the judge.