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

In criminal defense law in California, both prosecutors and defense lawyers play an important role in the selection of a jury. During the process of jury selection, each side will be given the opportunity to question potential jurors and decide if they are fit to serve. To begin this process, a pool of citizens will be called in to the court to fill out a questionnaire. The questionnaire will include questions about the potential jurors’ background and their general understanding of the law. The answers provided in this questionnaire will give the prosecutors and defense lawyers an insight into the potential jurors and will help them determine who to accept. The next step in the selection process is for the prosecutors and defense lawyers to ask questions directly to potential jurors. This is known as “voir dire,” or questioning under oath. During this questioning, the attorneys will be allowed to ask potential jurors about their beliefs, experiences, and opinions. This is the attorneys’ opportunity to get to know the potential jurors and decide if they are the right fit for the jury. The last step in jury selection is for the defense and prosecution to make a final decision on whether or not to accept a potential juror. If either side has a “cause” to strike a juror, they may be removed from the pool. Once the attorneys accept a juror, they cannot be removed from the jury pool unless there is a legal reason. Once the jury has been chosen, the trial can begin.

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

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