What is panel voir dire?

In the United States, voir dire is the process by which prospective jurors are questioned about their backgrounds and potential biases before being chosen to sit on a jury.

Do you have to answer voir dire questions?

The judge will explain what the case is about, how long the case will last, and introduce the lawyers and parties to you. All prospective jurors will be required to agree to truthfully answer all questions asked. They will use the voir dire questionnaire you filled out to help them pose appropriate questions.

What is an example of voir dire?

For example: During the voir dire process, the defense attorney asks Mary if she has ever known anyone who was involved in a drunk driving accident. Upon learning of Mary’s aunt, the attorney dismisses Mary from the jury pool.

Is voir dire jury selection?

Voir dire refers to the jury selection process, a critical step in any criminal case going to trial. Those selected as members of a jury will decide the fate of the criminal defendant.

Why is it called voir dire?

(See The Right to Trial by Jury.) Lawyers and judges select juries by a process known as “voir dire,” which is Latin for “to speak the truth.” In voir dire, the judge and attorneys for both sides ask potential jurors questions to determine if they are competent and suitable to serve in the case.

What happens if a juror knows a witness?

Generally, if a juror knows a witness, it isn’t grounds for automatic removal. The key is whether the juror can remain fair and impartial despite their connection with the witness…

How long does voir dire last?

The judge has given you 20 minutes to examine 18 prospective jurors. Your job is to determine which jurors you would like on your jury, which jurors you need to excuse and which jurors you can challenge for cause. While doing this seemingly impossible task, you need the jury to like and trust you.