What is the process of jury selection for criminal cases?

When a criminal case goes to trial, the judge and attorneys involved must select a jury. The process consists of multiple stages. First, a list of potential jurors is compiled. This list typically includes names from voter registration rolls, state identification cards, and driver’s licenses. The judge and attorneys then review the list and consider the qualifications, background, and other characteristics of potential jurors to determine which ones are most suitable for the case. The next stage is jury selection. People on the list are summoned for jury duty and the judge and attorneys question the jurors. During this process, both sides give potential jurors what is called a “challenge for cause.” This allows either side to reject a prospective juror if that person cannot fulfill the qualifications for jury duty or does not appear to be impartial. The judge and attorneys then select a jury from the list of qualified people. In California, the jury selection process typically moves quickly once all the questioning is finished, and the jury is sworn in. Once sworn in, the jury must render a verdict in the case. Juries may be asked to decide guilt or innocence, monetary damages, or other matters. The verdict must reach a unanimous agreement, which is the decision of all 12 members of the jury. If the jury fails to reach a unanimous agreement, it is known as a “hung jury” and the case may need to be retried.

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What is the process of jury selection for criminal cases?

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