The Art of Jury Selection in Civil Litigation: Understanding State Variances
Posted December 31, 2025
)
In civil litigation, the process of jury selection, also known as voir dire, is a critical stage that can significantly impact the outcome of a case. This post aims to explore the intricacies of jury selection, how it varies from state to state, and the importance of having legal representation knowledgeable in these procedures.
What is Jury Selection?
Jury selection is the process by which parties in a lawsuit, typically through their attorneys, question potential jurors to determine their suitability for serving on the jury. This process involves two main types of juror dismissals:
Peremptory Strikes: Attorneys can dismiss a certain number of jurors without stating a reason. However, these strikes cannot be used discriminatorily, such as based on race or gender.
Strikes for Cause: Parties may request the court to remove a potential juror if there's evidence of bias, inability to be fair, or inability to follow the law.
The Role of Jury Selection
The goal of jury selection is to assemble an impartial jury that can objectively consider the evidence and render a fair verdict.
State Variations in Jury Selection
Jury selection laws and practices can vary significantly across states, each with its own procedures and rules.
State-Specific Examples
California: Known for its detailed jury selection process, California allows extensive questioning of jurors to uncover biases and other disqualifying factors.