How do prosecutors and defense lawyers choose a jury in criminal defense law?

In criminal defense law in Mississippi, prosecutors and defense lawyers will typically make their jury selections from a group of potential jurors. The process begins with the names of potential jurors being selected from a pool of registered voters or licensed drivers in the jurisdiction. After the potential jurors are called to appear for jury selection, the lawyers representing each side will have the opportunity to ask questions of each potential juror. This process is called voir dire, and is used by both the prosecution and defense to determine if a juror can be neutral and impartial in the case. Once the questioning is complete, both the prosecution and defense can exercise their right to strike certain jurors from the pool. The defense usually has the first opportunity to strike a certain number of jurors from the pool and then the prosecution is able to do the same. The numbers of jurors each side can strike varies depending on the court and the case. The goal of striking jurors is to build a jury of impartial individuals who can decide the case objectively. Once the jury is selected, the lawyers will offer opening statements and present evidence before the jury decides the verdict of the case. While the lawyers are not able to pick which jurors serve on the case, they do have the ability to make sure that impartial and informed jurors serve on the case.

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How do prosecutors and defense lawyers choose a jury in criminal defense law?

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