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Grand Jury Selection: A Detailed Guide
Origins and History of the Grand Jury
The grand jury has a rich history, dating back to the Magna Carta in 1215. It originated in England and consisted of 12 men selected to review evidence and determine if there was sufficient cause to try an individual for a crime.
Qualifications for Jury Service
To qualify for jury service in the United States, citizens must meet certain criteria:
- Be a United States citizen
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a resident of the county where summoned
Jury Selection Process
Jury selection involves several steps:
- Summoning potential jurors: Jurors are randomly selected from voter lists or other sources.
- Qualification questionnaire: Prospective jurors complete a questionnaire to determine their eligibility and suitability for service.
- Voir dire: Attorneys question potential jurors to assess their backgrounds and potential biases.
- Jury selection: A random process is used to select a panel of jurors to hear the case.
Role of Grand Juries
Grand juries are tasked with reviewing evidence and determining whether there is probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed. They do not determine guilt or innocence but rather decide if there is sufficient evidence for a trial.
Term and Selection of Grand Jurors
The term of service for grand jurors varies depending on the jurisdiction. In some cases, they serve for 18 months, while in others, they serve for a shorter period. Grand jurors are typically selected on a random basis from the pool of qualified citizens.
Importance of Jury Duty
Jury service is a civic duty that plays a vital role in the judicial process. It helps ensure that individuals are fairly tried and that justice is served.
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