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

In Texas, attorneys in a criminal defense case carefully choose jury members to ensure that their clients have the best chance of a fair trial. Prosecutors and defense lawyers use a process called voir dire to select the jury. This involves having prospective jurors answer a series of questions to determine whether they have any biases that would make them unable to make a fair and impartial decision. Prosecutors and defense lawyers may reject potential jurors who indicate that they have already formed an opinion on the case, or those who may be more sympathetic to either the defendant or the prosecution. They also consider demographic factors that may influence which jurors will be most favorable to their side, such as race, gender, or socioeconomic status. Once attorneys have identified potentially favorable jurors, they then conduct a more in-depth questioning process to further assess each individual’s ability to remain impartial. Attorneys may ask about specific attitudes, beliefs, or life experiences that could influence jurors’ decisions. After questioning each prospective juror, attorneys use their "peremptory challenges" to eliminate those who they believe could be least favorable to their side. The goal of this process is to ensure that the jury that is ultimately selected will give the defendant a fair and impartial trial.

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