Have you ever heard the term ‘juror’ and wondered what it means? A juror is someone who hears a trial in a court of law, listens to the evidence and renders a verdict based on the facts of the case. They are an essential part of any criminal or civil trial, as they are tasked with deciding the outcome of the court proceedings.
Key Responsibilities of Jurors
When called to serve on a jury, a juror is expected to serve their duty diligently. They should never bring any assumptions or prejudices to a trial and must remain impartial and professional throughout the duration of their jury duty. Jurors are expected to be open and attentive to the proceedings and listen to all the evidence that is presented to them before deciding the verdict. Members of the jury have the responsibility of unanimous agreement before coming to a verdict. Jurors will often deliberate with the members of the jury until they reach unanimous agreement.
The Impact of Jurors on Our Justice System
The presence of jurors ensures that justice is served within our courtrooms. Their responsibility is to also ensure that the accused have a fair trial, even if the suspect may have been previously judged in the court of public opinion. The verdict that jurors deliver is the true testament of the justice system’s success or failure in providing everyone with an equal opportunity to be heard in a court of law.
Becoming a Juror
To become a juror, individuals must fulfill certain requirements. Every state typically has its own set of criteria for who can serve on a jury. These requirements may include a certain age limit, an ability to understand English, and to be a legal citizen of the United States. Potential jurors will usually receive a formal notice in the mail from the court requesting their availability and qualifications.
Jurors play a major role in upholding justice within court proceedings. It is an important civic responsibility, but it is also essential for providing all parties with the opportunity to have their case heard in a fair and unbiased manner. No matter the verdict that is reached, jurors should be proud to have served their civic duty.